SGPT / ALT

What is an SGPT/ALT Test?

SGPT(ALT) or Alanine transaminase test is carried out to know the presence of an enzyme in the blood. Liver cells produce an enzyme named Alanine transaminase, responsible for breaking down the protein in our body. The protein in the human body needs to be converted into energy. With the help of the ATL/SGPT enzyme, protein is converted into energy in the human body. Healthy liver cells contain the most amount of SGPT in our body. For the same reason, SGPT(ATL) test is conducted to know the presence of the enzyme in healthy liver cells.

The most amount of ALT in our body is stored inside live cells. However, traces of ALT can also be found in the kidneys, intestines, pancreas, and heart. Fat tissues and muscles in our body also contain some amount of alanine transaminase. SGPT(ALT) test is an indicator of the health of the liver in our body. Usually, the blood ALT levels remain low in our bodies. The levels remain low until the liver cells are healthy. When the liver cells are damaged, the ALT levels rise. SGPT/ATL is an individual diagnostic to determine the healthiness of the liver test. Sometimes, the SGPT test is conducted as a part of the LFT (Liver Function Test). Read on to know more about the SGPT test and its usefulness. 

Who Should Get Test for SGPT(ALT) Test?

As discussed above, SGPT (ALT) test determines the healthiness of liver cells. People who have any kind of liver disease are required to take the SGPT (ALT) test. If someone shows symptoms of any liver disease, the doctor may advise them to take an SGPT test. People suffering from liver diseases for an extended period might have to take an SGPT test at frequent intervals. Following people can be asked to take an SGPT test: 

• People suffering from jaundice
• People having dark urine
• People experiencing nausea and vomiting
• Patients experiencing pain in the upper quadrant of the abdomen
• Patients having a family history of liver diseases
• Heavy alcohol consumers
• Hepatitis patients
• Diabetic patients

Sometimes, SGPT (ALT) test is also conducted to know how well a liver treatment is going. 

Why Get Tested for SGPT (ALT)? 

SGPT (ALT) denotes the healthiness of the liver. If the liver is damaged or diseased, an SGPT test is mandatory. The general ALT levels in our body are low but increase due to some diseases. Diseases like cirrhosis and hepatitis can increase the ALT levels in our bodies. Besides detecting liver diseases, the SGPT test is also conducted to screen and monitor liver diseases. 

When Get Tested for SGPT (ALT)? 

In general, one should be aware of bodily functions once a year. People suffering from long-term liver diseases should opt for an SGPT test every two-three months. SGPT (ALT) test is also required to monitor the treatment of several diseases. A surgeon can advise a patient to take an SGPT test every month to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing treatment. 

Sample Required 

A blood sample is required to know the presence of alanine transaminase. To get the blood sample, the lab technician uses a sterile needle. Blood is drawn from the vein of the patient for an SGPT test. Patients might feel slight pain after the needle is inserted into the vein to take a blood sample. 

Is Fasting Required Before SGPT (ALT) Test? 

Many tests for bodily functions require fasting. However, one does not have to fast before taking an SGPT test. No special preparations are needed for an SGPT test. However, one should tell the ongoing prescriptions to the doctor before taking an SGPT test. For any confusion related to an SGPT test, one can consult their doctor.