SGPT stands for Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase enzyme, alternatively called GPT or ALT enzyme, which is an enzyme released by the liver. This enzyme is present in the muscles, heart, kidneys, and the liver. 

The liver is a vital organ responsible for eliminating toxic substances from the blood. It also aids in the production of bile juice that contains ALT/GPT enzymes. SGPT enzymes work by breaking down complex proteins into energy. An SGPT test can help diagnose disorders or diseases of the liver by measuring the level of SGPT enzymes present in a blood sample. 

What is an SGPT test?

An SGPT test is a serological diagnostic procedure used to analyse the level of SGPT enzymes present in a blood sample. This test provides insights into the liver's health and is commonly used to monitor liver conditions. There are no known side effects associated with this test. In India, the SGPT blood test price ranges between Rs. 90 and Rs. 180.

Purpose of SGPT test

A doctor may prescribe an SGPT test for various reasons, ranging from diagnosing liver damage based on physical symptoms to monitoring the effectiveness of liver disease treatment. The decision to have an SGPT test is best made by a doctor.

When should I get this SGPT test?

A doctor may recommend an SGPT blood test if they suspect liver damage based on symptoms such as:

• Abdominal discomfort
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Persistent fatigue or tiredness
• Easy bruising

Other symptoms that may indicate severe liver diseases include:

• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal swelling
• Leg swelling

An SGPT test may also be recommended by a doctor for the routine screening of liver health in cases where a patient faces certain risk factors that increase the chances of developing liver diseases. These risk factors may include:

• Having a history of liver diseases or disorders
• Heavy alcohol usage
• Diabetes
• Exposure to hepatitis
• Obesity
• Use of certain medications 

Furthermore, an SGPT test may be recommended by a doctor to track the progress of liver treatments in patients recovering from liver diseases.

What happens during the SGPT test?

The SGPT test is performed by obtaining a blood sample from a patient. A phlebotomist typically draws blood from a vein and sends it to a laboratory for testing. The process of drawing blood takes about 5 minutes and is usually no more painful than an ant sting. There are typically no side effects from this procedure.

Procedure for SGPT test

A laboratory technician analyses the blood sample to evaluate the level of SGPT. A test report is generated based on the analysis, which can help doctors diagnose or rule out liver diseases.

Uses of SGPT test

The SGPT blood test is primarily used to detect diseases or injuries in a patient's liver. It can also provide insights into the risks of kidney, heart, or specific muscle group diseases or injuries. Doctors may prescribe this test to be performed at regular intervals to monitor liver health.

How to prepare for the SGPT test?

For the SGPT test, no specific measures need to be taken. Fasting may not be required when providing the sample. Any specific precautions to be taken will be suggested by the treating doctor.

Values of SGPT Test Results

The Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase (SGPT) enzyme has a defined normal range. The level of the SGPT enzyme present in the blood sample is measured in units per litre. A higher than normal value of the SGPT enzyme may indicate liver damage or disease, requiring immediate medical attention.

SGPT normal range may vary for both men and women. Several factors can influence the normal blood SGPT range, including:

• Age
• Alcohol consumption
• Drug abuse
• Obesity
• Hepatitis infection
• Epstein Barr virus
• Celiac disease
• Gallbladder inflammation

In males, the SGPT normal range may vary from 29 to 33 units per litre, while in females, the SGPT normal values may vary from 19 to 25 units per litre. However, SGPT levels up to 55-56 units per litre are also considered safe for both males and females.

A SGPT high means or can indicate various medical conditions, including:

• Acute Hepatitis virus infection (A, B, C)
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Celiac disease
• Gallbladder inflammation
• Epstein Barr virus

Low SGPT levels can indicate proper liver function and overall liver health. However, they may also be found in conditions such as Vitamin B6 deficiency. Common factors and conditions that can lead to low SGPT levels in an SGPT blood test report include:

• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Vitamin B6 deficiency
• Hormone replacement therapy 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the SGPT blood test is a diagnostic procedure used to assess liver health and detect diseases or disorders affecting the liver. SGPT is an enzyme associated with liver activity. Higher or lower than the recommended SGPT test normal range may indicate medical conditions that impair liver function.

FAQs

1. How to understand SGPT test results?

Ans. SGPT test results are measured in units per litre of blood. The reference healthy range is typically provided in the SGPT blood test report. Examining the obtained enzyme levels in the results can provide insight into the status of SGPT levels in the blood. If the SGPT enzyme level falls within the range of 7 to 56 per litre, it is considered normal, and there may be no cause for concern.

2. What happens if the SGPT level is high?

Ans. While there may not be any immediate physical symptoms of elevated SGPT levels, a doctor may recommend additional tests to confirm a diagnosis.