2025 CPT code 84460
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Laboratory - Chemistry Procedures Pathology and Laboratory Feed
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (SGPT) test.
Modifiers may be applicable.Modifier 91 is used for repeat testing on the same day. Modifier 90 is used if sent to a reference lab. Modifier 59 is used for distinct procedural services.
Medical necessity for the ALT test must be established by linking it to the patient’s symptoms, signs, or diagnosis.It is used to evaluate liver function, diagnose liver disease, monitor disease progression, or assess drug-related liver injury.
Laboratory professionals perform this test on a serum or plasma sample.They operate laboratory equipment, ensure quality control, and validate results.The ordering physician interprets the results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.
In simple words: This blood test checks for liver damage.It measures a substance called ALT that leaks into the bloodstream when the liver is harmed. Higher levels could mean there's a problem with your liver.
This test measures the amount of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), also known as serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), in the blood.ALT is an enzyme primarily found in the liver.Elevated ALT levels often indicate liver damage or disease.
Example 1: A patient presents with fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain. The physician orders an ALT test to assess for potential liver dysfunction, such as hepatitis., A patient with a history of alcohol abuse undergoes routine monitoring with an ALT test to track liver health and disease progression., A patient taking medication known to have potential liver side effects has regular ALT tests to monitor for drug-induced liver injury.
Documentation should include the reason for the test, the date and time of sample collection, and the sample type (serum or plasma).Relevant clinical findings and diagnoses should also be documented.
** The normal range for ALT varies by laboratory but is typically between 7-56 units per liter. An organ or disease-oriented panel may be more appropriate if additional liver tests are ordered along with ALT. While ALT is primarily associated with liver conditions, some medications and heart problems can cause elevated ALT.
- Revenue Code: T1H (LAB TESTS - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Hepatology, gastroenterology, internal medicine, family medicine, emergency medicine
- Place of Service:Independent Laboratory, Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital