In liver function tests, you will often come across two terms, namely SGOT and SGPT. Both are types of enzymes whose levels can be measured through a blood test. Understanding the general purpose of this test can help you read your results more calmly.
What SGOT and SGPT Are
SGOT and SGPT are enzymes found, among other places, inside liver cells. SGPT is generally more closely associated with the liver, while SGOT can also be found in other tissues in the body, such as muscle. For this reason, the two enzymes are often tested together to give a more complete picture.
When liver cells come under stress or are disrupted, some of these enzymes can enter the bloodstream, so their levels in the blood may rise. That is why this test is often used as one way to get a general sense of the liver's condition.
Why the Results Can Vary
SGOT and SGPT levels are not influenced by the condition of the liver alone. Many other things can affect them too, for example strenuous physical activity, the condition of the muscles, certain medications or supplements being taken, and everyday habits. For this reason, a result outside the reference range does not automatically mean a particular disease is present.
The reference range for these two enzymes can also differ between laboratories because of differences in methods and equipment. What usually receives more attention is not merely a single number, but the overall picture together with other tests and the trend over time.
Responding Calmly to the Results
- Compare your results against the reference range printed on your own report.
- Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
- Avoid drawing your own conclusions from a single test result.
This article is meant to help you understand the SGOT and SGPT tests in general, not to diagnose or replace a doctor's assessment. If you want to understand what your results mean, it is best to consult a doctor, including a 20FIT doctor, so the explanation fits your condition.