ALT (SGPT): price and preparation | IntroLab Belgrade
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ALT (SGPT)

Price190 RSD
Result in4h
SampleCitrated Plasma
ALT (SGPT) test, IntroLab laboratory Belgrade Written byDr. Igor Švonja, MD

Published: Updated:

ALT (SGPT) testing is among the most requested laboratory analyses at IntroLab in Belgrade. These tests, including SGPT, are crucial for evaluating liver function and are fundamental in diagnosing various liver diseases. Moreover, the price of the ALT test is both competitive and accessible.

What is ALT (SGPT)?

ALT, or Alanine Aminotransferase, also known as Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme predominantly present in liver cells. Elevated levels in the blood signal liver damage or diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or toxic injuries.

This test’s results can help your doctor identify potential liver issues and monitor the progress and effectiveness of ongoing treatment. It’s important to recognize that high ALT (SGPT) levels might also suggest problems in other organs, like the heart or muscles, thus it is often conducted alongside other tests for a comprehensive diagnosis.

ALT tests (SGPT) – Indications

Biochemical blood tests for ALT (SGPT) are frequently recommended in cases where liver disease is suspected or to evaluate liver function. Circumstances in which a physician might prescribe this test include:

  • Suspicion of viral hepatitis, commonly hepatitis A, B, or C.
  • Concerns about liver damage due to long-term use of certain drugs or alcohol consumption.
  • Symptoms suggestive of liver disease, such as jaundice (yellow tint to the skin and eyes), dark urine, itching, tiredness, appetite loss, and abdominal swelling.
  • Monitoring the effectiveness of liver disease treatments.
  • Liver function assessment before, during, and after surgical interventions.

Interpreting results

ALT (SGPT) levels are measured in units per liter (U/L) of blood. The reference values for this enzyme in a blood biochemical analysis can vary based on multiple factors, typically ranging from 7 to 55 U/L.

  • Normal levels: Suggest probable normal liver function. However, it’s important to note that normal values don’t necessarily exclude liver disease.
  • Elevated levels: Indicate potential liver damage or disease. High ALT levels might signal acute or chronic liver issues, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Additionally, elevated ALT levels can be indicative of damage to other organs, like the heart or muscles.

It’s crucial to realize that the results of an ALT (SGPT) test alone cannot diagnose a specific illness. Typically, these results are combined with other tests to establish an accurate diagnosis. It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for a precise interpretation of the results.

Sample and preparation: ALT (SGPT)

Sample
Citrated Plasma (Venous Blood)
Sampling
Venipuncture
Result in
4h
Preparation
No special preparation is necessary. However, it's recommended not to collect the sample right after eating.
Category
Biochemistry

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast for an ALT (SGPT) test?

Not necessarily: no special preparation is needed for the ALT (SGPT) test. Still, it is not recommended to take the sample right after eating, so it is better to allow some time between your meal and your visit to IntroLab laboratory. ALT is measured from serum from venous blood, and the result is ready in 4 hours, so you usually get it the same day.

How much does an ALT test cost and why would a doctor order it?

The ALT (SGPT) test at IntroLab laboratory costs 190 RSD, and the result is ready in 4 hours. Doctors most often order it when viral hepatitis is suspected, for liver damage due to long-term use of medications or alcohol, for jaundice, dark urine, itching and fatigue, as well as to monitor treatment of liver disease and to check the liver before and after surgery.

What does high ALT in a blood test mean?

High ALT (SGPT) most often means that liver cells are damaged, because this enzyme is found mainly in the liver and passes into the blood in larger amounts when the liver is injured. The cause may be hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or toxic injury, and less often heart or muscle damage. ALT alone does not point to a specific disease, so the result from IntroLab laboratory is interpreted together with other tests, always by a doctor.

Why are ALT and AST usually tested together?

ALT and AST are tested together because they give a fuller picture of liver health than either enzyme alone. ALT is found mainly in liver cells, while AST is also present in larger amounts in the heart and muscles, so their ratio helps the doctor assess the origin and type of damage. At IntroLab laboratory, both tests are done from the same venous blood sample, and ALT costs 190 RSD.

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