Liver

ALT

Alanine Aminotransferase. Measured in clinic at The Wellness in Marylebone, read by a doctor.

What It Is

Alanine aminotransferase is an enzyme found mainly inside liver cells, where it helps process amino acids. When liver cells are stressed or damaged, the enzyme leaks into the bloodstream, so the blood level acts as a signal of liver cell health.

Why It Matters

The liver rarely announces early trouble with symptoms, and ALT is one of the standard ways to look for it. It is commonly used to screen for fatty liver changes linked to weight, alcohol and metabolic health, and to monitor the effect of some medicines.

What Results Can Suggest

A raised ALT can suggest irritation or injury to liver cells, with common associations including fatty liver, alcohol, certain medications and viral infections. Vigorous recent exercise can also nudge it upward. A single result rarely stands alone, so review it with a doctor.

This page is general information, not medical advice and not a substitute for a consultation. Reference ranges vary between laboratories, and results should always be interpreted by a doctor who knows your history.