ALT (SGPT)-254
Test info
SGPT
Markedly high levels of ALT may be found in a variety of diseases that involve the liver, such as hepatitis, mononucleosis, and cirrhosis. Because these very high levels are not seen in other disease processes, such as myocardial infarction, ALT is regarded as a reasonably specific indicator of Liver disease.
Specimen
Immediately follow collection, mix sample by inverting 8 - 10 times to prevent clotting
Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection
Lt green plasma separator (PST)
EDTA plasma
Immediately following collection, thoroughly mix sample by gently inverting 5 times
Gold:
- Allow sample to clot for a minimum of 30 minutes
- Spin within two (2) hours of sample collection
Red:
- Allow sample to clot
- Spin
- Transfer serum to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as serum, within two (2) hours of sample collection
EDTA:
- Spin
- Transfer plasma to a False bottom plasma/serum transport vial/tube (AHL), labelled as Na hep plasma, within two (2) hours of sample collection
Refrigerated (preferred) - 7 days
Frozen - 60 days
Ambient - 3 days
- Improper labels (unlabeled or mislabeled)
- Hemolysis
- Improper anticoagulant or ratio
- Delay in transport
- Improper storage temperature affecting results
- Inappropriate timing of collection
- Improper container
- Leaking container resulting in compromised specimen
- Quantity not sufficient (QNS)
Performance
Enzymatic
Clinical and Interpretive info
|
Male: |
10 - 50 U/L |
|
Female: |
10 - 35 U/L |
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), also known as GPT (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), is one of a group of enzymes which catalyzes the conversion of amino acids and α-oxo-acids by transfer of amino groups. Transaminases are widely distributed in body tissues with significant amounts found in the kidney and liver. Lesser amounts are also found in skeletal muscles, heart, pancreas, spleen, and lungs. Injury, or disease processes, to these tissues results in the release of the ALT enzyme to the general circulation.