The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) test, also known as the Serum Glutamic-Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT) test, is a key diagnostic test used to evaluate liver health. ALT is an enzyme primarily found in liver cells, where it plays a crucial role in metabolism. When liver cells are damaged, ALT is released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels that may indicate liver injury or disease.

Since ALT is highly specific to the liver, the test is recommended as a part of a liver function panel (LFT) or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to assess overall liver function. The test is useful in diagnosing conditions associated with liver damage, such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and liver cirrhosis. Several liver disorders present with marked ALT elevation.

Orange Health Labs offers the SGPT test at ₹220. Also, get a home sample collection at a time that suits you. Orange Health Labs ensures reliable and affordable testing services, with samples collected by skilled eMedics at your preferred location. Please note that Serum SGPT test prices may vary depending on the city and the chosen laboratory. A detailed SGPT test cost breakdown in different cities is provided below:

Fasting Requirements

Fasting is generally not required, but your doctor may advise it if other tests are being conducted simultaneously.

Medications and Supplements

Inform your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking, as some may affect liver enzyme levels.

Alcohol and Lifestyle Factors

Avoid alcohol consumption before the test, as it can impact the results.

The SGPT test procedure is simple, minimally invasive and requires a blood sample. Once you book the test with Orange Health Labs, a skilled and experienced eMedic will arrive at your desired location for sample collection. The steps of the testing procedure are as follows: 7,8

• Preparation: The eMedic will explain the testing procedure to you and answer any queries you may have. You will be asked to sit comfortably prior to sample collection.

• Site Selection: A suitable vein, usually in your inner elbow area, will be selected for collecting the sample, and the area will be cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.

• Needle Insertion: A needle will be inserted in the vein and blood will be drawn. You might feel a mild pinch or sting during this step.

• Blood Collection: The required amount of blood will be collected in a vial.

• Needle Removal: The eMedic will remove the needle and apply pressure at the needle insertion site with a gauze pad to stop any bleeding.

• Bandaging: A small bandage will be placed over the puncture site to protect it.

You will receive the results of your test within 1-2 days of sample collection.

An ALT blood test is primarily used to assess liver health by measuring the levels of SGPT/ ALT levels in the blood. Here are some reasons for taking an ALT test:

Routine screening: Screening may be recommended for individuals at higher risk of liver disease, including those with heavy alcohol use, obesity, a family history of liver disease, and history of drug use with shared needles.

Monitoring liver health: Testing is also recommended for individuals with known liver conditions to track disease progression or response to treatment. It is also used to monitor the effects of medications that impact liver function.

Diagnosing liver disorders: An ALT test is recommended for those experiencing symptoms of liver dysfunction, such as:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal pain or swelling

• Loss of appetite and fatigue

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

• Dark urine and light-coloured stool

• Persistent itching

While an ALT test alone cannot diagnose a specific liver disease, it plays a crucial role in early detection and management of liver diseases, guiding further evaluation and treatment.

An SGPT test is recommended for individuals who may have liver damage or are at higher risk of liver disease such as:

• Obesity of metabolic disease

• Diabetes

• Family history of liver disease

• Hepatitis or recent exposure to hepatitis

• Heavy alcohol use or alcohol use disorder (AUD)

• Individuals with symptoms of liver damage such as jaundice, fatigue, weakness, dark-coloured urine, light-coloured stool, swelling in ankles and legs, abdominal pain, or swelling may also require an SGPT test.

• Since liver conditions often develop without noticeable symptoms in the early stages, an SGPT (ALT) test can help in the early detection of liver disease..

The liver plays a crucial role in digestion and metabolism; therefore, any disruption in its function can lead to noticeable signs, including:

• Jaundice- yellowing of the skin and eyes because of bilirubin buildup

• Fatigue and weakness

• Abdominal pain and swelling

• Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss

• Dark-coloured urine and pale stools

• Persistent nausea and vomiting

• Swelling in the legs and ankles

• Itchy skin

The table provided below helps interpret the results of the ALT/SGPT blood test:

The SGPT test measures the levels of SGPT/ ALT enzyme in the bloodstream.

SGPT is an enzyme mainly found in the liver. It is also present in the kidneys, heart, and muscles in small amounts. This enzyme plays a crucial role in metabolism, helping convert proteins into energy. While mild fluctuations in ALT can occur due to factors like exercise or diet, persistently high ALT levels may indicate liver issues including fatty liver disease, alcohol-induced liver damage, viral hepatitis, and so on. ALT levels are low in healthy individuals. Thus, low ALT levels are usually not concerning. Several factors that can influence ALT levels include age, metabolic health, and levels of physical activity.

The normal range of SGPT (ALT) is typically less than 50 units per litre (U/L). The normal level of SGPT may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. SGPT levels within this range are generally an indication of healthy liver function.

Factors That Can Affect SGPT Test Results

Several factors can influence SGPT (ALT) levels, leading to temporary or persistent changes in test results: 1,2,5

• Medications : Certain drugs, including pain relievers (NSAIDs), statins, antibiotics, and anti-seizure medications, may elevate SGPT levels.

• Alcohol Intake : Regular or excessive alcohol consumption can damage liver cells, increasing SGPT levels.

• Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome: Excess body weight, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol levels can contribute to increased SGPT levels.

• Underlying Liver Conditions : Hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and other liver disorders may lead to persistently high SGPT levels.

• Strenuous Exercise : Intense physical activity before the test can cause a temporary rise in SGPT levels due to muscle stress.

• Infections & Inflammation : Systemic infections or inflammatory conditions may impact liver enzyme production.

If your SGPT (ALT) levels are higher than normal, it’s important to consult with your doctor to identify:

• The causative condition – If your SGPT levels are significantly higher than the normal range, it may suggest liver issues such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or other liver conditions. Your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as imaging studies or other liver function tests, to identify the exact issue and assess the extent of liver damage. 3

• The next steps for the treatment of liver damage – Depending on the cause of the liver damage, treatment options may include lifestyle changes (e.g., weight management, reducing alcohol consumption), medications, or monitoring of liver health through regular testing. In some cases, a referral to a specialist, such as a hepatologist, may be necessary for further management.

The SGPT test offers several key benefits in maintaining liver health. It plays a crucial role in:

• Early Detection of Liver Conditions : The SGPT test can help identify liver issues at an early stage, even before noticeable symptoms appear. Early detection allows for prompt intervention, potentially preventing further liver damage and improving treatment outcomes.

• Monitoring Ongoing Treatments : For individuals with known liver conditions, the SGPT test is useful in monitoring the effectiveness of treatments. Regular testing helps track the liver’s response to medications or lifestyle changes and ensures that treatment plans are adjusted as needed.

• Prevention of Severe Liver Complications : Regular SGPT testing helps detect liver damage early, reducing the risk of severe complications such as cirrhosis or liver failure. By identifying issues in the early stages, proactive steps can be taken to manage and prevent more serious health problems.

• By measuring the SGPT levels in the blood, doctors can assess liver function and detect abnormalities:

• High SGPT levels: High SGPT levels in a blood report indicate liver cell damage and can signal several liver-related conditions. Some common conditions that can be diagnosed with high SGPT levels include hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, and liver tumours.

• Low SGPT levels: Generally, low SGPT levels are not a concern and may be considered normal.

Certain risk factors, as follows, can increase the likelihood of having abnormal SGPT levels: 3,5

• Excessive Alcohol Use : Chronic alcohol consumption is a leading cause of liver damage, which can result in elevated SGPT levels. Prolonged heavy drinking may lead to alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis, both of which are associated with increased SGPT.

• Obesity : Individuals with obesity are at an increased risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver, causing inflammation and elevated SGPT levels.

• Diabetes : People with diabetes, particularly those with poor blood sugar control, are more likely to develop fatty liver disease and other liver conditions that result in higher SGPT levels. Insulin resistance plays a key role in this association.

• Certain Medications : Some medications, such as statins, acetaminophen, and certain antibiotics, can cause liver damage as a side effect, leading to elevated SGPT levels. It's important for individuals on long-term medication regimens to monitor liver function.

• Viral Infections : Hepatitis B and C, as well as other viral infections that affect the liver, can significantly raise SGPT levels. These infections lead to liver inflammation, causing liver cells to release more SGPT into the bloodstream.

Being aware of these risk factors can help identify individuals who may need an SGPT test to monitor liver health regularly.

If abnormal SGPT levels are left untreated, they can lead to serious liver complications and negatively affect overall health. Some complications of untreated abnormal SGPT levels are: 4,9

Progression to cirrhosis or liver failure: Chronic elevation of SGPT levels often indicates ongoing liver damage, which can eventually lead to cirrhosis – a condition where the liver becomes severely scarred and loses its ability to function. If left unmanaged, cirrhosis can progress to liver failure, a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.

Impact on overall systemic health

When the liver function is compromised, it can lead to systemic complications such as:

• Hormonal imbalance

• Issues in nutrient absorption

• Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases

To keep your liver functioning optimally and maintain healthy SGPT levels, follow these essential steps:

• Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can scar the liver and lead to cirrhosis. Limit alcohol consumption to recommended levels.

• Be cautious with medications and supplements: Many medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers, and certain herbal supplements can cause liver damage. Always take medications as prescribed and consult a doctor before using supplements.

• Prevent hepatitis infections: Hepatitis A, B, and C are major causes of liver disease. Protect yourself by getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, practising safe sex, and ensuring

proper hygiene, such as washing hands before eating.

• Consume a balanced diet: A nutrient-rich diet supports liver health. Focus on whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and nuts. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats to prevent fatty liver disease.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can lead to liver damage. Regular exercise and a balanced diet help prevent weight-related liver issues.

• Minimise exposure to toxins: Chemicals in pesticides, cleaning products, and certain cosmetics can harm the liver. Wash produce thoroughly, use protective gear when handling chemicals, and choose non-toxic household products.

Liver function tests assess various enzymes and proteins to evaluate liver health. SGPT is commonly measured alongside other tests to provide a clear overview of liver function. Other tests similar to SGPT are:

SGOT (AST): Like SGPT, the SGOT test measures the levels of liver enzymes. Elevated AST levels along with high ALT may indicate liver injury.

Gamma-GT (GGT): GGT is an enzyme that helps identify bile duct disorders and alcohol-related liver damage.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs): LFTs include a panel of tests including SGPT, SGOT, bilirubin, albumin, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) to assess overall liver function.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): AFP is a tumour marker used for detecting and monitoring hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatoblastoma. AFP is also elevated in chronic viral hepatitis due to liver regeneration.

There are two main types of SGPT blood tests:

1. Total SGPT Test

This test measures all the SGPT in your blood, including bound (attached to proteins) and free (active) SGPT. It’s the most common test, often included in routine health screenings.

2. Ionised SGPT Test

This test measures only the free, active SGPT in your blood. It’s more accurate for assessing SGPT that your body can use and is typically done if total SGPT results are abnormal or if you have specific health concerns.

Here is how the SGPT test differs from other similar tests:

• SGPT vs. SGOT: SGPT is more specific to liver damage, while SGOT can indicate damage to other organs like the heart and muscles.

• SGPT vs. LFT Panel: A full LFT provides a broader assessment of liver health, while SGPT specifically measures liver enzyme activity.

• SGPT vs. GGT: GGT is mainly used to assess bile duct function and alcohol-related liver conditions, whereas SGPT focuses on liver cell damage.

• SGPT vs. AFP: SGPT measures liver enzyme levels to detect liver cell damage, while AFP is a tumour marker used to diagnose and monitor liver cancer and chronic liver diseases with regenerative activity.

SGPT Blood Test During Pregnancy

Liver injury can result from multiple factors, including physical trauma, infections, or exposure to toxins. SGPT testing helps detect and assess the extent of liver damage

Special Conditions That Require SGPT Test

SGPT testing is essential in diagnosing and monitoring various forms of hepatitis, including viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), autoimmune hepatitis, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic hepatitis.

Medication-Related Liver Toxicity

Certain drugs, including pain relievers and antibiotics, can elevate SGPT levels, and require regular monitoring with this test.