ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) are the most commonly ordered liver enzyme tests used to detect liver damage. The ALT test is one of the most important tests for evaluating liver function. Doctors frequently recommend the ALT test to detect liver problems. ALT is used to determine if liver cells are damaged.
What is ALT?
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver and in smaller amounts in the kidneys and other organs. It plays a role in converting nutrients from food into energy in the liver. Normally, it is found inside liver cells and only a small amount appears in the bloodstream due to cell death. Elevated ALT levels in the blood are a key indicator of liver damage. Liver damage can be caused by various diseases. In order to plan treatment and prevent liver failure, if ALT or other liver enzymes are elevated, further testing is required. The higher the amount of this enzyme in the blood, the more significant the liver damage. Slight increases may also be caused by poor dietary habits or fatty liver disease.
AST, another enzyme, is used to assess the health of the liver and heart muscles. It is also recommended for diagnosing liver diseases and muscle or organ damage.
When Should You Take the ALT Test?
The ALT test is usually taken along with other liver enzyme tests when there is suspicion of liver disease or during routine check-ups. It is especially recommended in the following cases:
Swelling or pain in the abdominal or stomach area
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Rapid weight loss
Persistent fatigue
Unexplained skin itching
Dark urine
Pale-colored stool
Additionally, people who regularly consume alcohol, have a family history of liver disease, have had hepatitis, or are taking medications that may damage the liver should monitor their ALT levels regularly.
ALT – High or Low Results
Normal ALT levels:
Women: 7–35 U/L
Men: 10–50 U/L
Low ALT levels generally have no clinical significance and are not a cause for concern. However, high ALT levels should always be investigated. The most common causes of elevated ALT (indicating liver damage) include:
Fatty liver disease
Chronic medication use
Excessive alcohol consumption
Obesity
Diabetes
Cholesterol-lowering medications
Heart failure
Hepatitis A, B, and C infections
Cirrhosis
People with a family history of liver disease are at higher risk and should regularly test their liver function.
What is the AST Test?
The AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test is a blood test used to evaluate the health of the liver and heart muscles. Doctors often explain the importance of this test, as it plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis of various diseases. The AST test also helps detect muscle damage and complements liver function evaluation.
For more information about the ALT test or to register online, you can contact our Call Center at (012) 910 or reach us via WhatsApp at (055) 4000 910.