Liver system

ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)

ALT

A liver enzyme — the primary marker of liver cell injury.

What is it

ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) — in plain English.

ALT is an enzyme found primarily in liver cells. When liver cells are injured, ALT is released into the blood, making it a primary marker of hepatocellular injury.

Why it's measured

What ALT can reveal.

Elevated ALT has been associated with fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, and medication-related liver injury in published research.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 40 U/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower ALT — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with hepatocellular injury including fatty liver disease and viral hepatitis in research literature.

Lower

Is generally considered favorable.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When ALT is typically run.

Part of every standard liver panel and routine physical.

Related markers

Often measured alongside ALT.

Measured in

ALT is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.