SGPT / ALT
Also known as: ALT, Alanine Aminotransferase, SGPT
Picture liver cells as little factories; SGPT in blood means some factories are leaking. Mild leaks from fatty liver usually heal with weight loss, exercise, and avoiding alcohol.
What this test means
SGPT (ALT) lives mainly inside liver cells. When the liver is irritated — by fat, viruses, alcohol, or medicines — the enzyme leaks into the blood and the value rises.
Why it is done
It is done within liver function tests for fatigue, jaundice, fatty liver follow-up, alcohol-related checks, and medicine safety monitoring.
Understanding your value
High SGPT can be seen in fatty liver (very common), viral hepatitis, alcohol effects, and as a side effect of some medicines.
Low values are normal and not significant.
Many labs use roughly 7–40 U/L. Mild elevations (1–2× upper limit) are commonly from fatty liver and improve with lifestyle change.
Consult your doctor for persistently raised values, and promptly if you have yellowing of eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
- TestSGPT / ALT
- Short formsALT, Alanine Aminotransferase, SGPT
- Sample typeBlood
- CategoryLiver & Digestive Health