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Liver Function (LFTs)

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Normal range 7–56 U/L (0.12–0.93 µkat/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: SGPT, alanine transaminase.

7–56 U/LReference range

Reference range

ConventionalU/L
756
SIµkat/L
0.120.93
SpecimenSerum
Conventional range7–56 U/L
SI range0.12–0.93 µkat/L
Conversion factor×0.0167 (conventional → SI)
PanelLiver Function (LFTs)

Convert any Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)?

The standard teaching reference range for Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) is 7–56 U/L in conventional units, or 0.12–0.93 µkat/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

  • Hepatocellular injury (hepatitis)
  • Fatty liver disease
  • Drug or toxin injury
  • Ischemic liver injury

Below the range

Common causes of a low Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

  • Vitamin B6 deficiency (rare)

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • The most liver-specific transaminase.
  • An ALT > AST pattern is typical of viral or fatty liver disease.

Study aid

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