Name of the Procedure:

Transferase; alanine amino (ALT) (SGPT) Test
Common name(s): ALT Test, SGPT Test
Technical terms: Alanine Aminotransferase Test, Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase Test

Summary

The ALT test measures the level of the enzyme alanine aminotransferase in your blood. It helps assess liver function and detect liver damage.

Purpose

The ALT test is primarily used to identify liver damage and monitor liver conditions. Elevated ALT levels can indicate liver injury, hepatitis, or other liver-related disorders. The goal is to diagnose liver issues early and monitor ongoing liver health.

Indications

• Signs of liver disease (e.g., jaundice, dark urine, fatigue)
• History of hepatitis or other liver conditions
• Routine liver function monitoring for patients with liver disease
• Evaluating the effectiveness of treatments that might affect the liver
• Assessing liver damage from medications or substances

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually needed.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you're taking, as some can affect ALT levels.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will clean the site on your arm where blood will be drawn.
2. A needle will be inserted into a vein to collect a blood sample.
3. The blood is placed in a vial and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
4. The site of needle insertion is bandaged post-procedure.

Tools, equipment: Sterile needle, syringe, vials Anesthesia: Not applicable

Duration

Typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Setting

Performed in a clinical setting such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, or diagnostic laboratory.

Personnel

Usually conducted by a phlebotomist or nurse.

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or pain at the blood draw site
• Slight bruising or bleeding where the needle was inserted
• Rare: Infection or excessive bleeding

Benefits

• Quick and minimally invasive
• Provides critical information about liver health
• Helps in early detection and monitoring of liver conditions

Recovery

• No significant recovery period needed
• You can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Keep the bandage on for a few hours to prevent bleeding.

Alternatives

• Other liver function tests (e.g., AST test, bilirubin test)
• Imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scan of the liver (provide structural information but are more invasive and costly)

Patient Experience

• You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted.
• Minor discomfort or soreness at the puncture site, which usually resolves quickly.
• Keep hydrated and relaxed to minimize discomfort during the blood draw.

Pain management: Typically none needed as it is minimally invasive. If you have concerns about the blood draw, discuss them with your healthcare provider beforehand.