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Chemistry Description and Guide
Alanine aminotransferase/ALT (SGPT)
For practical purposes the enzyme alanine aminotransferase is specific to the liver in
dogs and cats. It is found in the cellular cytoplasm and may be released into the blood
during changes in cell membrane permeability or necrosis.
Principal reason for performing the test:
To investigate hepatic damage in dogs and cats.
Note: Do not use this test for the detection of liver disease in ruminants, horses, and
pigs as the enzyme activity in the liver is very low. Even in severe liver disease in these
species the increase in activity is minimal.
Most common abnormality indicated by the test:
Hepatic parenchymal lesions.
Special precautions in sample collection:
EDTA and fluoride/oxalate should not be used as anticoagulants. Remove plasma
or serum promptly from the clot or cells. Hemolyzed specimens should not be used
because ALT contamination from red cells will occur.
Limitations of procedure:
High total protein samples that are predominantly gamma globulin can increase
ALT results. Samples should be diluted 1:1 with saline and reanalyzed (see Dilution
ProtocolsQBHF&
Complementary tests:
Alanine aminotransferase activity is usually determined in conjunction with other tests of
hepatic damage or function.
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