Understanding Lab Tests for Alcohol-related liver disease
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Alcohol-related liver disease encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions caused by chronic heavy alcohol consumption, ranging from fatty liver to cirrhosis. While diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and medical history, blood tests are fundamental for detecting liver damage, assessing the extent of injury, and monitoring disease progression.
Recommended Test
Alanine Aminotransferase ALT (formally known as SGPT)
This test measures ALT levels in the blood, an enzyme primarily found in liver cells. Chronic heavy drinking can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver, which causes damaged liver cells to release ALT into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated levels. This makes ALT testing a key indicator for detecting alcohol-related liver damage.
2907 reviews
Why Blood Testing is Essential
Early stages of alcohol-related liver disease often present without obvious symptoms. Blood tests can reveal liver enzyme elevations and other markers that indicate liver inflammation, damage, or impaired function before symptoms become apparent. This early detection is crucial for preventing progression to more severe stages of liver disease.
Understanding Your Results
Elevated ALT levels can indicate liver inflammation or damage, but the degree of elevation and pattern over time helps healthcare providers assess the severity of alcohol-related liver disease and guide appropriate treatment strategies. Regular monitoring is often necessary to track disease progression or improvement with treatment.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of alcohol-related liver disease.
