Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), also known as serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. ALT plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids, specifically the conversion of alanine and alpha-ketoglutarate to pyruvate and glutamate.
ALT is released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or destroyed, such as in the case of liver injury or disease. Therefore, elevated levels of ALT in the blood are often indicative of liver damage or dysfunction. Some common causes of elevated ALT levels include:
Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections (such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C), alcohol abuse, autoimmune disorders, or fatty liver disease.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): Conditions characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver, which can lead to liver inflammation and damage.
Medications: Certain medications and drugs, including acetaminophen (paracetamol), statins, antiepileptic drugs, and some antibiotics, can cause liver injury and elevate ALT levels.
Alcohol abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis) and damage, resulting in increased ALT levels.
Liver cirrhosis: Advanced liver scarring and fibrosis, often resulting from chronic liver disease, can lead to elevated ALT levels.
ALT levels are commonly measured through blood tests, often as part of liver function tests (LFTs). Interpretation of ALT levels should be done in conjunction with other liver function markers, such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and bilirubin, to assess liver health comprehensively.
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