SGOT, or serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, is one of the two enzymes produced by the liver. It is also known as AST or aspartate aminotransferase. A protein by nature, it is also found in other organs like the heart, kidneys, muscles, and brain. Its optimum levels are crucial for several metabolic processes.
When Do SGOT Levels Become a Cause of Concern?
Optimum SGOT levels are important for a range of body functions. Its abnormal levels can manifest in many ways.
The most common symptoms of abnormal SGOT levels associated with liver dysfunction may include:
- Jaundice marked by yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Easy bruising
- Excessive bleeding
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained fatigue
- Weakness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen region
- Itchy skin
Most people have optimum low levels of SGOT enzymes in the blood. But liver disease or damage to liver cells, causes the SGOT levels to rise. The increased levels begin to leak into the bloodstream, resulting in increased levels of liver enzymes in the blood.
How are SGOT Levels Tested?
The SGOT levels in the body are checked through a simple blood test. The test does not require fasting. But the run-down to the test requires a few precautions to be taken. These include:
- Do not take any over-the-counter medication or supplements at least two days before the test.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated before and during the test.
Understanding SGOT Test Report
The blood sample is processed by a machine. It takes a few hours before the results are out. The normal range of the enzyme in the SGOT blood test for men is between 10 and 40 IU/L of serum. For women, the SGOT normal range is between 9 and 32 IU/L of serum.
Furthermore, levels of more than 45 IU/L in females and above 50 IU/L in males are seen as a sign of possible liver damage.
What Does a Value Outside SGOT Normal Range Indicate?
SGOT levels can fall outside the normal range. Both, too-low and extremely high SGOT levels indicate a health concern.
If SGOT levels are high, it can be a sign of:
- Chronic hepatitis
- Alcohol-related liver damage
- Cholestasis – a decrease in bile flow from the liver to the small intestine
- Heart-related conditions like myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, or inflammation of the heart lining
- Muscle damage like muscular dystrophy, muscle injury, or inflammation of muscle tissue
- Potential exposure to hepatotoxic substance
- Liver cancers
- Liver scarring or liver cirrhosis
If SGOT levels are below the normal range, it can be a sign of:
- Vitamin B6 deficiency
- Severe malnutrition
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Liver cirrhosis
- Liver cancer
- Autoimmune conditions
- Genetic disorders like hypophosphatasia, or Wilson’s Disease
How are Abnormal SGOT Levels Treated?
The treatment for SGOT levels will depend upon the underlying cause. If the SGOT levels are higher than the normal range, the doctor may prescribe more tests to narrow down the possible cause. A more targeted line of treatment is followed to bring down high SGOT levels.
On the other hand, if the SGOT levels are below the normal range, supplements for Vitamin B6 deficiency and dietary improvements are recommended. The condition-related treatment plan is prescribed for other causes.
The Role of ALT Test
ALT, or alanine aminotransferase, is the other enzyme present in the liver. But unlike SGOT, this protein is primarily present in the liver. If doctors find SGOT blood test levels alarmingly high, they can advise an ALT test.
If both ALT and SGOT levels are high, it is a clear case of liver damage. However, if ALT levels are normal but SGOT levels are high, it indicates a health problem other than liver damage.
Conclusion
SGOT test or the AST test is a simple blood test that helps pick up the levels of the enzymes in the body. The high levels of the serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase enzyme are indicative of potential liver damage. However, SGOT levels alone do not give clear results. ALT test is prescribed for assessment of the alanine aminotransferase enzyme in specific cases where SGOT levels are not conclusive. However dual evaluation of ALT and SGOT levels indicates liver damage, requiring immediate medical attention and care.
