Ultimate Guide to Understanding SGPT and SGOT Normal Range

Liver function tests have a significant role in checking how properly the liver functions. The two leading critical indicators of liver tests are SGPT(ALT) and SGOT(AST). The doctors figure out any damage in the liver with the help of these tests. The SGPT and SGOT levels increase in the blood when the liver is injured or is not working correctly. This article will help to understand these tests’ importance, their normal range, and what to do if the results are abnormal. Understanding SGPT and SGOT will help doctors and suggest better care for overall health.

Understanding SGPT and SGOT

SGPT (also known as ALT) and SGOT (also known as AST) are enzymes mainly found in liver cells. These enzymes have primary roles in the metabolism of amino acids, known as building blocks of proteins. Typically, SGPT and SGOT are present in liver cells, but they are not usually found in considerable amounts in the bloodstream inside our body.
When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, SGPT and SGOT can be released into the bloodstream, causing their levels to rise. This leakage usually occurs because the outer membrane of liver cells becomes more permeable or damaged, allowing these enzymes to combine in the blood circulation.

SGPT (ALT)

Function: SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase or ALT) is mainly involved in transferring the amino group from alanine (an amino acid) to alpha-ketoglutarate, producing pyruvate and glutamate. This reaction is significant for energy production in cells of the body.
Specificity: SGPT plays a more significant role in the liver than SGOT. It is primarily found in the liver, and its levels in the blood are the best indicator to determine liver health.

SGOT (AST)

Function: SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase or AST) catalyzes the shift of an amino group from aspartate to alpha-ketoglutarate, producing oxaloacetate and glutamate. This enzyme is essential for amino acid metabolism and the urea cycle in the body.
Distribution: SGOT is not only present in the liver but also in other organs such as the heart, muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells in the body. Therefore, elevated SGOT levels can indicate damage or disease in these organs and the liver, making it more useful for overall health determination.

Symptoms of High SGPT and SGOT Levels

A spike in the level of SGPT and SGOT does not usually cause specific symptoms. But, the indication of underlying liver disease or liver damage happens, which may be known by the symptoms like:

• Feeling Tired: The patient might always feel tired, even after resting.
• Yellow Skin and Eyes: Patient skin or the white part of the eyes might turn yellow (jaundice). Pee might also get darker, and stools lighter.
• Pain in Your Belly: The patient might feel pain or discomfort on the upper right side of the belly where the liver is present.
• Swelling: Belly or legs might swell up because of fluid buildup.
• Feeling Sick: The patient could feel nauseous or vomit and dislike eating.
• Losing Weight: Undesirable weight loss happens.
• Easy Bruising or Bleeding: The patient might bruise easily or have bleeding gums or nosebleeds.
• Itchy Skin: Skin might feel itchy, especially on hands and feet.
• Spider-Like Blood Vessels: Patients might see tiny blood vessels on the skin.

Don’t ignore symptoms of high SGPT and SGOT levels. It’s essential to get a full body checkup in a year to catch any issues early and prevent them from worsening. Your health depends on regular monitoring and timely intervention.

Are SGPT and SGOT Levels Only Indicators of Liver Disease?

SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) are essential for checking liver health, but they do not always mean just liver problems. SGOT can also come from other parts like the heart and muscles, not only the liver. High SGOT levels might not always show a liver issue. Doctors use more tests, like scans and sometimes taking a small piece of liver tissue, to be sure about what is causing the problem. This helps them find the proper treatment. Keeping an eye on SGPT and SGOT levels is vital for liver health, but doctors look at the whole body to understand what is happening and how to help.

Normal Ranges for AST(SGOT) and ALT(SGPT)

SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) are enzymes found in the liver, measured by a blood test to evaluate if the liver is working. Normal SGPT levels are usually between 7 to 56 units per litre of blood, and SGOT levels are typically between 8 to 40 units per litre. Normal levels mean the liver is healthy and doing its job very well. Doctors use these tests to keep an eye on liver health, especially if patients drink alcohol a lot, are overweight, or have hepatitis. If SGPT and SGOT levels are higher than usual, it might mean the liver is damaged or has a liver disease like hepatitis or fatty liver. More tests may be needed to determine why levels are high and what treatment might be required. Regular tests help monitor liver health and ensure any problems are caught early.

Critical levels of SGPT and SGOT

It is considered critical when SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) levels get very high. For SGPT, this means it is more than ten times the standard upper limit, and SGOT is over 20 times that limit. These high levels show severe damage to the liver or other organs and need urgent medical attention. It could be due to problems like acute hepatitis, liver failure, or medication side effects harming the liver.

Interpreting Abnormal Test Results

When SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) levels are not typical, they often indicate potential health issues. High SGPT and SGOT levels usually indicate liver damage from conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or excessive alcohol consumption. Sometimes, medications, muscle injuries, or heart problems can also affect these levels, especially SGOT. Doctors may add some tests such as blood work, scans, or a liver biopsy to determine the exact problem. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and includes medications, dietary adjustments, or managing other health conditions. Regular monitoring of SGPT and SGOT levels helps doctors assess treatment effectiveness and monitor overall liver health.

Implications of Elevated SGPT and SGOT Levels

When SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) levels are high, it often means there is potential damage to the liver. Causes can include hepatitis viruses, fatty liver disease due to being overweight, or excessive alcohol use. High levels suggest that liver cells might be injured or swollen. Doctors will do more tests to determine why levels are high, such as checking for infections or doing liver scans. Treatment depends on what is causing the high levels and may involve medicines, dietary changes, or managing conditions like diabetes. Treating liver problems early is essential to prevent serious issues like liver scarring or failure. Regular tests to check SGPT and SGOT levels help doctors monitor liver health and find problems early.

Procedure for the SGPT/SGOT Blood Test

The blood test for SGPT/SGOT is also known as the liver function or liver enzyme test. The process involves several processes as below:

• Blood Draw: A nurse or doctor will tie a band around the arm to find a vein. They will clean the area and insert a small needle to draw blood into a tube.
• Collection of Sample: The blood is collected into a unique tube and labeled with the patient’s name. It is sent to a lab for testing, Precision Path also provides their patient with the facility of home sample collection from any area of Jaipur.
• Lab Analysis: In the lab, technicians measure the levels of SGPT and SGOT in blood to see if they are within normal ranges.
• Results: The doctor will get and discuss the results with the patient. They will explain what the levels mean for liver health.

Preparing for SGPT/SGOT Blood Tests

Fasting is not typically required to prepare for the SGPT/SGOT blood test. However, it is essential to make sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as some of the substances may impact liver enzyme levels. Avoiding alcohol before a certain period of test is recommended by the doctors.

Risk Associated with the SGPT/SGOT Blood Test

SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) blood tests are safe but have risks. They may cause discomfort or bruising at the needle site. Some people feel faint or dizzy during or after. Infection at the needle spot is rare but possible. Excessive bleeding is rare, too, especially for those with bleeding issues or on certain meds. Exercise or medications can affect results. These tests are vital for liver health checks and disease detection despite risks. If any concerns arise, talk to a doctor promptly.

Cost of the SGPT-SGOT blood test in India

The cost of SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) blood tests can vary. In India, at private clinics or labs, they can cost from a few hundred to over a thousand rupees. Depending on their policies, government hospitals may offer them at lower costs or for free. These tests are often part of routine check-ups and might be covered by health insurance. It is essential to check with the healthcare provider or facility to determine the exact cost and if insurance covers it.

Conclusion

In summary, SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) levels are crucial for assessing liver health. When these levels are high, it signals potential liver issues like damage or disease. Doctors may perform additional tests to identify the exact problem. It is essential to be prepared for these tests and understand what affects their results. Regular monitoring helps catch liver problems early, allowing for prompt treatment. Staying informed and getting tested regularly is vital to maintaining good liver health. For accurate and reliable liver function testing, Precision Pathlab, the best diagnostic center in Jaipur, provides comprehensive services. Book a test today for precise measurements and professional medical guidance to manage and maintain liver health effectively.