Clinical Chemistry - Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

ALT measurements are used in the diagnosis of hepatic damage and diseases including viral hepatitis and cirrhosis.The normal concentration levels of ALT in the blood are low, however, when damaged, the liver releases more ALT into the blood causing the concentration levels to rise. When diagnosing for hepatic damage, the root cause of the damage can be established, such as disease, drug, or injury

The ALT test not only allows for the diagnosis of liver disease but also allows for the diagnosis of the root cause of the disease.