Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

ALT Blood Test | London Blood Tests | 

Check liver health with our Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) blood test for £30. UKAS-accredited testing, fast results, GP review optional.

The Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Blood Test measures ALT, a key liver enzyme released into the blood when liver cells are damaged. It is widely used to assess liver health, detect liver inflammation, and monitor liver conditions or medication effects. Testing is performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with an optional GP consultation.

What is an Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Blood Test?

ALT is an enzyme found mainly in liver cells (hepatocytes). When the liver is inflamed or injured, ALT leaks into the bloodstream, making it a sensitive marker of liver cell damage.

The ALT test is commonly included in liver function tests (LFTs) and is used to:

• Detect liver inflammation or injury

• Monitor chronic liver disease

• Assess medication or alcohol-related liver effects

• Screen for fatty liver disease

• Investigate unexplained fatigue or abnormal blood tests

ALT is particularly useful because it is more liver-specific than many other enzymes, making it a key indicator of hepatocellular damage.

At London Blood Tests, ALT is measured using validated enzymatic methods aligned with UK clinical standards.

Benefits of the ALT Test

1. Sensitive Marker of Liver Damage
   ALT rises early in liver inflammation or injury.

2. Supports Early Detection of Liver Disease
   Identifies liver issues before symptoms appear.

3. Monitors Medication & Alcohol Effects
   Useful for people on long-term medications or with alcohol exposure.

4. Key Marker for Fatty Liver Disease
   ALT is commonly elevated in NAFLD.

5. Part of Routine Health Screening
   Widely used in liver function panels.

6. Non-Invasive & Quick
   Requires only a simple blood test.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results can be reviewed with a GP if abnormal.

Why Do I Need an ALT Blood Test?

You may benefit from an ALT test if you:

• Have unexplained fatigue or weakness

• Drink alcohol regularly

• Are overweight or have metabolic syndrome

• Take medications that affect the liver

• Have viral hepatitis or liver disease

• Have abnormal liver blood tests

Symptoms associated with raised ALT may include:

• Fatigue

• Right upper abdominal discomfort

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Jaundice (in more advanced cases)

Because liver disease often progresses without early symptoms, ALT testing is important for preventive health.

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment

   • Book online or by phone at your chosen clinic.

   • No fasting required (fasting may be advised if combined with other tests).

2. Pre-Test Review

   • Inform the clinician about medications, supplements, or alcohol intake.

3. Sample Collection

   • A trained phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

   • Takes 5–10 minutes.

4. Laboratory Analysis

   • Sample analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory.

5. Quality Control

   • Results verified before release.

6. Results Delivery

   • Results typically available within 1–2 business days.

7. Optional GP Consultation

   • Review results and next steps with a GP if needed.

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)

1. Book Your Visit

   • Arrange a phlebotomist home or hotel visit at a suitable time.

2. Professional Collection

   • Certified phlebotomist collects your blood sample.

3. Secure Transport

   • Sample couriered same day to the laboratory.

4. Laboratory Testing

   • Analysis identical to clinic testing.

5. Results & Follow-Up

   • Results delivered online, GP review optional.

Your ALT Test Results – Explained

ALT levels are reported in U/L.

Typical UK reference ranges (may vary slightly by lab):

• Men: up to ~ 45 U/L

• Women: up to ~ 35 U/L

Interpretation:

• Normal ALT: healthy liver enzyme activity

• Mildly elevated ALT: fatty liver, medication effect, alcohol

• Moderately to highly elevated ALT: hepatitis, liver inflammation, injury

ALT results are best interpreted alongside AST, ALP, bilirubin, and GGT.