What is Sgot and Sgpt?
The full form of SGOT and SGPT are Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase and Serum Glutamic-Pyruvic Transaminase.
SGOT is also called AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), and SGPT as ALT. Normally, the reason for an increased SGOT and SGPT levels is inflammation in the liver. The liver is a vital organ in our body that performs various functions like digestion, protein synthesis, and detoxification. If there is any issue with the liver, it is a matter of concern.
What is SGOT and SGPT in Liver Function Test (LFT)?
Whenever we do liver tests, we first perform a blood test called the liver function test (LFT). If you carefully look at the liver function test report, you will see that four types of enzymes are checked:
- SGOT
- SGPT
- Serum Alkaline Phosphatase
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT).
Usually, these enzymes are normal. However, if the enzyme levels are high, either SGOT and SGPT levels rise, or serum alkaline phosphatase and GGT levels may increase.
In this blog, we will mainly discuss why SGOT or SGPT levels increase.
Where Are SGOT and SGPT Found?
First, it is important to know that SGOT and SGPT are enzymes found in the liver. Apart from the liver, these enzymes can also be present in the heart and skeletal muscles (which we call the “muscles” in common language). So, if there is an issue in the liver, heart, or muscles, SGOT or SGPT levels can rise. However, it is generally observed that in liver problems, SGOT and SGPT levels are more commonly elevated.
Let us understand why SGOT and SGPT increase.
Reasons for Increased SGOT and SGPT Levels
Now, let’s understand why does SGPT and SGOT increase and what is the treatment for high SGOT and SGPT levels.
First, we check how high the SGOT and SGPT levels are. If these levels are very high, such as 500 or more, it indicates a serious issue. The normal cutoff for SGOT and SGPT varies from lab to lab, but typically it falls between 30 to 50. So, if someone’s SGOT or SGPT levels are extremely high, like 500 or more, it means there is acute inflammation in the liver.
What Does “Acute” Mean?
“Acute” means sudden. This suggests that there is a sudden swelling in the liver, and the main cause of this is acute viral hepatitis. Hepatitis A and E viruses mainly cause acute hepatitis. Additionally, the Hepatitis B virus can also cause acute hepatitis.
In these patients, the main symptoms are fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, and later, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
When we perform a blood test, we find that SGOT and SGPT levels are significantly elevated. If we suspect viral hepatitis, we test for hepatitis A, E, and B, and treat it accordingly.
Tuberculosis (TB) Medication
If a patient is taking medication for tuberculosis (TB), some of these medications can cause liver toxicity or damage. In such patients, SGOT or SGPT levels can also rise significantly. Therefore, for patients taking TB medicines, we suggest regular liver function tests (LFTs).
Gallstones and Bile Duct Obstruction
If someone has gallstones, and if one of the stones moves and gets stuck in the bile duct, SGOT and SGPT levels can also rise. However, after a day or two, the levels generally normalize. Patients with this condition may experience severe pain in the abdomen, fever, chills, and jaundice. We can easily diagnose this condition with an ultrasound and remove the stone through endoscopy.
Moderate Elevation in SGOT and SGPT Levels
Now, let’s understand what the possible causes could be if someone has increased SGOT and SGPT levels, but they are less than 300.
Chronic Hepatitis
Chronic hepatitis refers to long-term liver inflammation. It can occur in patients with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or other long-term diseases. In such cases, patients may not experience significant symptoms, or they might have fatigue or mild discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Alcoholic Hepatitis
A major cause of chronic hepatitis is alcoholic hepatitis, where alcohol consumption leads to swelling in the liver. In this condition, SGOT and SGPT levels are high, and SGOT levels are usually double that of SGPT. In addition to this, the patient may experience jaundice, and blood tests may show an increased level of bilirubin, as well as elevated GGT levels. If someone consumes alcohol and has liver swelling or alcoholic hepatitis, they should immediately stop drinking alcohol.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Another cause of chronic hepatitis is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), where there is fat accumulation and inflammation in the liver, but the person does not drink alcohol. This condition is more common in diabetic patients or those who are overweight. Blood tests will show that the person’s SGOT and SGPT levels are high, and if untreated, it may progress to cirrhosis. If someone has non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, they should consult a doctor immediately. In most cases, controlling blood sugar and losing weight can help prevent further progression of this condition.
Other Causes of Chronic Hepatitis
- Viral Infections
Chronic hepatitis can also be caused by viral infections like hepatitis B and C, which are the main viruses responsible for chronic hepatitis. These conditions can be easily diagnosed with a blood test, and both viruses are treatable.
- Autoimmune Hepatitis
Autoimmune hepatitis is a condition in which the body produces antibodies that attack the liver. To diagnose this, specific antibodies are tested in the blood.
- Wilson’s Disease
In Wilson’s disease, copper accumulates in the liver, which can lead to chronic hepatitis. As a result, SGOT and SGPT levels are high, indicating liver inflammation or damage. If left untreated, this condition can progress to cirrhosis or liver failure, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
- Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition where excess iron builds up in the body and can cause liver damage. Over time, this can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or heart issues. In such cases, SGOT and SGPT levels are high, indicating liver stress or inflammation
- Drug-Induced Hepatitis
Certain medications can also cause chronic hepatitis. When this occurs, SGOT and SGPT levels are high, indicating liver inflammation. Patients on such medications should regularly monitor their liver function.
Other Conditions Leading to Elevated SGOT and SGPT Levels:
- Muscle Diseases
Muscle diseases can lead to elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.
- Heart Problems
Heart issues can also cause SGOT or SGPT levels to rise.
- Celiac Disease (Gut Allergy)
Conditions like gut allergies, also known as Celiac disease, which cause loose stools and nutritional deficiencies, can lead to anemia and elevate SGOT and SGPT levels.
- Thyroid Issues
Thyroid problems, where the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, can also cause elevated SGOT and SGPT levels.
Conclusion
Elevated levels of SGOT and SGPT, if left untreated, can lead to serious health conditions such as hepatitis, alcoholic hepatitis, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. If your SGOT and SGPT levels are high, or if you are experiencing symptoms like fever, vomiting, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain, it is crucial to consult the best gastroenterologist for effective treatment.