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.