SGOT & SGPT
SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase), also known as AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and SGPT (serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase), also known as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), are enzymes found primarily in the liver cells (hepatocytes). These enzymes are released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or inflamed. The SGOT and SGPT tests are used to evaluate various aspects of liver health:
- Liver Function: SGOT and SGPT levels are markers of liver function. Elevated levels of these enzymes may indicate liver damage or inflammation. SGOT is found in both the liver and other tissues, including the heart and muscles, while SGPT is primarily found in the liver.
- Liver Diseases: Liver diseases such as hepatitis (viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis), fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer can cause liver cell damage and lead to increased SGOT and SGPT levels.
- Drug-induced Liver Injury: Certain medications, including some over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and herbal supplements, can cause liver toxicity and elevate SGOT and SGPT levels. Monitoring these enzymes is important during treatment with potentially hepatotoxic medications.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver damage and elevate SGOT and SGPT levels. These enzymes are often used as markers to assess the extent of alcohol-related liver injury.
- Viral Hepatitis: SGOT and SGPT levels are often elevated during acute viral hepatitis (hepatitis A, B, C, etc.). Monitoring these enzymes can help diagnose and monitor the progression of viral hepatitis.
- Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver in people who do not consume excessive alcohol. Elevated SGOT and SGPT levels may indicate liver inflammation or damage associated with NAFLD.
- Liver Transplantation: SGOT and SGPT levels are monitored before and after liver transplantation to assess liver function, detect rejection, and monitor for complications.