Written By: IJCP Editorial Team

Published On: 26 Jun, 2023 9:41 PM | Updated On: 08 Jan, 2025 5:09 PM

All You Should Know about SGOT and SGPT Test

SGOT and SGPT Test: Understanding Liver Health

SGOT and SGPT are two tests that are commonly advised by physicians to assess liver health. These tests are essential to understand the functioning of the liver and its overall health. The liver is a vital organ that performs several essential functions in the body, such as processing nutrients, removing toxins, and producing bile. However, several factors such as alcohol abuse, hepatitis, or drug damage can damage the liver. In this article, we will cover everything you must know about SGOT and SGPT tests.

What is SGPT?

SGPT is an abbreviation for Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase. This enzyme is found in the liver, heart, kidneys, and skeletal muscles. However, the highest concentration of SGPT is found in liver cells. If there is damage to liver cells, SGPT is released in the bloodstream, which increases the level of SGPT in the blood. Therefore, elevated levels of SGPT are indicative of liver damage.

What is SGOT?

SGOT is an acronym for Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase. This enzyme is also found in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, and brain. However, like SGPT, the highest concentration of SGOT is found in liver cells. If there is any liver damage, SGOT is released in the bloodstream, and its levels increase in the blood. Therefore, elevated levels of SGOT are indicative of liver damage.

How is the test performed?

SGOT and SGPT tests are simple blood tests that are performed in a clinical laboratory. The test requires a small amount of blood drawn from the vein from the patient's arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test results are available within a few days, depending on the laboratory's workload.

What do SGOT and SGPT levels indicate?

If the levels of SGPT and SGOT are within the normal range, it means that the liver is functioning correctly, and there is no liver damage. However, if the SGPT and SGOT levels are elevated, it is an indicator of liver damage. Based on the degree of elevation, a physician can determine the severity of liver damage.

What are the normal levels of SGOT and SGPT?

The normal range of SGOT and SGPT levels varies slightly for different laboratory tests. However, in general, the normal range of SGPT is 7 to 56 units/liter of blood, and the normal range of SGOT is 8 to 45 units/liter of blood. The SGPT and SGOT levels can vary due to several factors such as age, sex, weight, and alcohol consumption. Therefore, a physician must interpret the test results based on the patient's clinical history and other relevant factors.

What causes elevated SGOT and SGPT levels?

Elevated SGOT and SGPT levels are indicative of liver damage, which can be caused by several factors such as:

Hepatitis - Hepatitis can be caused by a viral infection, autoimmune diseases, or medications. Hepatitis causes inflammation of the liver, which can cause liver damage and elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.

Alcoholism - Alcohol abuse is a common cause of liver damage. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause alcoholic liver disease, which can lead to elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease - Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver, which can lead to liver damage. NAFLD can cause elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.

Drug-Induced Liver Injury - Certain medications such as antibiotics, statins, and painkillers can cause liver damage and elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.

How to lower SGOT and SGPT levels?

The treatment to lower SGOT and SGPT levels depends on the underlying cause. Some general steps that are effective to decrease SGOT and SGPT levels are:

Cessation of alcohol: If alcohol abuse is the cause of liver damage, it is necessary to stop drinking alcohol to prevent further liver damage.

Weight loss: Weight loss can decrease SGPT and SGOT levels in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Medications: Depending on the underlying cause, a physician may prescribe medications to lower SGPT and SGOT levels.

Supplements: Certain supplements like Vitamin E, milk thistle, and omega-3 fatty acids have been found to lower SGPT and SGOT levels in some individuals.

Conclusion

SGOT and SGPT tests are essential for assessing liver function and health. Elevated levels of SGOT and SGPT are indicative of liver damage, which can be caused by several factors such as alcoholism, hepatitis, and drug-induced liver injury. It is necessary to identify the underlying cause and take appropriate measures to lower SGOT and SGPT levels. Therefore, regular liver function tests are necessary to maintain liver health and overall well-being.