Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
It's part of the comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Fatty liver disease is the most common cause of a mildly high ALT.
Why it's done
- Routine panels
- Monitoring medicines like statins or methotrexate
- Possible hepatitis or fatty liver
Getting ready and what happens
- Avoid hard exercise and alcohol for a day or two before, if possible.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| ALT | About 7 to 55 U/L (many experts consider over about 30 in men and 19 to 25 in women worth a look) |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
Mildly high
Often fatty liver, alcohol, medicines, or hard exercise. Usually rechecked.
Very high (over about 10 times normal)
Can mean acute hepatitis, a medicine or acetaminophen injury, or poor blood flow to the liver.
When a result needs quick action
Call your provider todayVery high ALT, or high ALT with yellow skin, dark urine, or confusion
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related medicines
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.