The liver plays an extremely important role in carrying out a variety of metabolic processes in the body as well as synthesis and secretion of different types of enzymes which enable normal functioning of the body.
Out of the different types of enzymes which the liver produces, SGOT and SGPT are two such enzymes which are synthesized and released into circulation when there is any kind of damage to the liver cells and tissues.
SGOT stands for serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase. It is also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST).
This enzyme is present in the liver as well as kidneys, heart, muscle tissues, pancreas and also in small quantities in the red blood cells. Damage to red blood cells or to the cells of organs where SGOT is found causes its release into circulation.
SGOT is found more in the heart muscles than in the liver, therefore, levels are significantly increased during myocardial infarction.
The purpose, therefore, of performing a blood test for SGOT is to assess the degree or extent of cellular damage to the organs or muscle tissues.
In absence of a cardiac condition, SGOT blood test is generally advised along with testing of other parameters of the liver function such as SGPT (ALT), serum bilirubin levels – both conjugated and un-conjugated, alkaline phosphatase and serum proteins including serum albumin and globulin.
The purpose therefore of performing an SGOT blood test is to let your doctor diagnose a liver, kidney or a heart condition which may be causing SGOT to leak into circulation. Further laboratory or radiological tests may be advised if SGOT levels are found higher than the normal range.
[Read – Natural Ways To Reduce High SGOT and SGPT Levels]
An SGOT blood test is a simple, fairly harmless procedure and does not require any specific preparation such as fasting or discontinuation of medications.
Normal Range – 0 – 31 IU/L
Normal range may vary with the type of technique used and may be slightly different in different laboratories.
High Range – SGOT levels greater than 40 units/ L in both males and females may be present in cases of a deranged liver function, kidney disorders, muscular injury or cardiac conditions. Higher levels may be found in patients who have had a heart attack.
[Read – High SGOT and SGOT Causes]
The Concentration of SGOT in Serum Depends upon The Following Parameters:
Since SGOT is found more abundantly in the heart tissues than in liver, a sharp rise in SGOT can be seen during myocardial infarction for the first 24 hours.
The counts decline and regularize by 3-5 days. The degree of cardiac muscle damage can be correlated with the extent of the rise in SGOT levels.
SGOT Level Greater Than 350 – Can be found in massive myocardial infarction (often fatal) and is associated with high mortality.
SGOT Level Less Than 50 – Myocardial infarction with low mortality
In presence of muscular injury or liver and kidney diseases, other clinical parameters such as liver function test and kidney function test correlate with a rise in SGOT levels.
Dr. Himanshi is a Homoeopathic consultant and currently working as a lecturer in Post-graduate faculty of Homeopathy, Parul University, Vadodara. Completed BHMS and MD in Homeopathy in January 2018 and also has a clinical experience of about 6 years. Personal interests include reading, spending time with family and traveling.
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