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Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

Methodology

Based on the principles of Wroblewski and LaDue where ALT transfers the amino group from alanine to α-oxoglutarate to form glutamate and pyruvate. Through a series of reactions, the pyruvate ultimately produces NAD+ from NADH, which is measured as an indication of NADH consumption.

Test Utility

Used to diagnosis liver diseases such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, and heart disease

Specimen Collection and Preparation

Serum or plasma sample in the following tubes:

  • Preferred Specimen: One Gold-top or red top SST tube. (Minimum Whole Blood: 4.0 mL)

  • Also acceptable: One Lithium Heparin tube OR one Lavender-top EDTA tube. (Minimum Whole Blood: 3.0 mL)

Specimen Storage and Stability

Sample should be centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 minutes within 1 hour of collection, and serum/plasma separated as soon as possible.

Serum Specimens:

  • Room Temperature: Not indicated

  • Refrigerated (2–8°C): 3 days

  • Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days

Plasma Specimens:

  • Room Temperature (20–26°C): 7 days

  • Refrigerated (2–8°C): 7 days

  • Frozen (-20°C or below): Not indicated

Specimen Rejection

  • Insufficient sample volume

  • Sample not stored at proper temperature

  • Frozen whole blood

  • Hemolyzed samples

  • Severely lipemic specimens

  • Specimen labeled incorrectly or not labeled

Reference Pages

Performed

Monday – Sunday, 16 hours a day 

Result available within 24 hours of receipt in laboratory 

NOTE: Specimens are refrigerated (2-8°) for 7 days before disposal

Contacts

Vibra Health Laboratory  

1307- A, Allen Dr. Troy, MI 48083 

(248) 846-0663

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