A serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), is a serological test used to measure AST enzyme levels in the blood. AST is a liver enzyme that may enter the bloodstream when the liver is damaged.

What is an SGOT test?

An SGOT test is a diagnostic serological test that measures one of the two liver enzymes (SGOT and SGPT). In addition to the liver, the SGOT enzyme is also found in the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles.

Purpose for SGOT test

The liver is a vital organ responsible for performing important bodily functions, including:

• Detoxifying and purifying the blood
• Breaking down and absorbing nutrients from foods
• Acting as a storage unit for vitamins and releasing them for growth and development

To assess the liver's function, a doctor may prescribe two analytical tests for liver enzymes, namely:

• Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT)
• Serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT)

These enzymes are typically contained within the liver. However, when the liver sustains damage due to various factors, such as leading a sedentary or unhealthy lifestyle, these enzymes can enter the bloodstream. This presence can be identified through an SGOT/SGPT test. Essentially, a liver function test is conducted by measuring the levels of AST/SGPT and SGOT/ALT enzymes in a blood sample. Elevated levels of these enzymes beyond the recommended range may indicate liver damage.

When should I get this SGOT test?

A doctor may prescribe an SGOT test to check for liver injuries or damage. The efficient functioning of the liver depends on several factors, including a person's diet and lifestyle. Having an unhealthy diet, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and other factors such as obesity and excessive alcohol consumption may lead to liver damage and affect its functioning. When the liver is damaged, enzymes may leak into the bloodstream, resulting in an elevated level of these enzymes in the blood.

If a person has certain risk factors that may damage the liver, a doctor may recommend the SGOT test. These risk factors may include the following:

• Family history of liver disease
• Symptoms of liver damage, such as unexplained weight loss
• Jaundice

An SGOT test may also be recommended to monitor the progression of certain liver diseases or their treatments, such as in the case of liver cirrhosis. Additionally, since the SGOT enzyme is also present in organs other than the liver, an SGOT test can assist in detecting damage or impaired functioning in these organs. Typically, in the diagnosis of liver damage, both tests of liver enzymes are taken into consideration along with other accompanying symptoms.

What happens during the SGOT test?

The SGOT test is performed using a blood sample collected from the patient by a phlebotomist. During the process, the phlebotomist locates a vein in the patient's arm, applies a tourniquet, and uses a needle to draw blood. The collected blood is then placed in a tube, which is subsequently used to test for the presence of the enzyme.

Procedure for SGOT test

The blood sample is transported to a laboratory, where a qualified technician conducts the analysis, and the test results are reported in units per litre of blood.

Uses of SGOT test

An SGOT test may be utilised by a doctor or healthcare provider to diagnose liver diseases or liver damage. When the liver is damaged, the SGOT enzyme leaks into the bloodstream, leading to an increase in its levels in the blood. Therefore, significantly higher-than-normal levels of SGOT in the blood can help identify the extent of liver damage. Additionally, this test may also be used to assess liver function in patients with ongoing liver diseases.

Since SGOT is also present in other organs, damage or injury to such organs can result in elevated levels of SGOT enzyme in the blood. For instance, in cases of muscle injury or a heart attack, SGOT levels may rise in the bloodstream.

How to prepare for the SGOT test?

An SGOT test is a routine blood test that involves collecting a blood sample. It does not require any special preparations, such as fasting, before the blood is collected. However, if the patient is taking medications or health supplements, it may be necessary to adjust or discontinue the dosage. This should be discussed with the treating doctor before making any changes or modifications.

Values of SGOT Test Results

While the values of SGOT enzymes may vary slightly depending on the laboratory testing method, the standard normal level for SGOT enzymes is provided in the test report.

The level of SGOT in the blood varies by gender. Typically, the SGOT normal range for females is below 45 units per litre, while the normal range for males falls between 12 and 50 units per litre.

Low SGOT Level

Lower than normal SGOT levels may result from various factors, including:

• Genetic conditions
• Autoimmune diseases
• Liver diseases
• Kidney diseases
• Vitamin deficiencies

High SGOT Level

SGOT high means or may indicate several health issues, such as:

• Liver cirrhosis
• Chronic hepatitis
• Liver damage
• Liver cancer
• Cholestasis
• Damage to the heart, kidneys, bones, or muscles

Elevated SGOT levels in an SGOT test often indicate poor liver function, although it may not always be the case. Other factors, such as medications, age, and gender, can also lead to increased SGOT levels.

Conclusion

SGOT and SGPT serve as crucial markers of liver function. Elevated levels of these enzymes in the blood may suggest liver disease or damage. Moreover, a high SGOT level may also signal diseases or disorders in other organs where it is present. Frequently, an SGOT test is employed for assessing liver function and diagnosing liver disease in its early stages.

FAQs

1. What is the cost of the SGOT test?

Ans. The price of an SGOT test can range from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200.

2. Is a high SGOT level dangerous?

Ans. Elevated SGOT levels beyond the recommended norms for specific genders may be a cause for concern and warrant further testing.