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Alanine Aminotransferase Test


Why is this procedure done?


Alanine aminotransferase is also called ALT. It is an enzyme found inside your liver cells. If the liver cells become damaged, the ALT is released into your blood. The cell damage can be caused by a virus, medicines, too much alcohol or drug use, bile duct obstruction, or possibly a tumor. This test measures the amount of ALT in your blood. ‚  
The doctor may order this test to: ‚  
  • See if you have liver disease
  • Check for liver damage
  • Look for the cause of jaundice
  • See how certain drugs are affecting the liver
  • Go along with other tests to check how well your liver is working


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What will the results be?


  • The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
  • If the results are normal, it means your liver is likely working in a normal way.
  • If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your liver or gall bladder.
  • Your doctor may order another test to verify the diagnosis.
  • The doctor will talk with you about treatment.

What happens before the procedure?


  • There are no special things to do before the test. You may find it convenient to wear a short sleeved shirt on the day of your test.
  • Talk to your doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are taking, including all herbal and over-the-counter or OTC medications
    • Any bleeding problems
    • Your exercise habits. Strenuous exercise may affect the results of your ALT test.

What happens during the procedure?


It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The blood will be sent to the lab for testing. ‚  

What happens after the procedure?


  • You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
  • Ask your doctor when you will get the results.

What care is needed at home?


You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚  

What follow-up care is needed?


Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your liver. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Infection

Where can I learn more?


American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚  
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/alt/tab/test ‚  
KidsHealth ‚  
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/test_alt.html ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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