General Information About the Test
Test Process and Preparation
An elevated ALT level generally indicates damage or destruction in the liver. Alcohol consumption, fatty liver, viral hepatitis, or the side effects of certain medications are the most common causes.
An 8-12 hour fast is generally recommended before blood collection. Excessive physical exercise and alcohol consumed in the days prior to the test can temporarily increase ALT levels, and these situations should be avoided.
ALT is usually evaluated together with other liver enzymes such as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase). The ratio of ALT to AST values gives the physician more precise information about the type of liver disease.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only. The results of medical tests must be evaluated by specialist physicians.
