When liver cells experience damage, they release specific enzymes, SGPT (serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase) and SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase), into the bloodstream. Elevated levels of these enzymes are a common finding in blood tests, often leading to questions about their significance and whether the underlying issues can be resolved. This article explores these enzymes, common reasons for their elevation, and how high levels are addressed.
Understanding SGPT and SGOT
SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase or ALT) is an enzyme found predominantly within liver cells, and its presence in the bloodstream at elevated levels is a strong indicator of liver cell damage. SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase or AST) is another enzyme. While SGOT is also found in the liver, it is present in other organs as well, including the heart, muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells.
Because SGPT is more concentrated in the liver, it is generally considered a more specific marker for liver health compared to SGOT. When liver cells are injured or inflamed, these enzymes leak into the bloodstream. Monitoring SGPT and SGOT levels helps healthcare providers assess liver function, detect potential damage, and guide interventions.
Common Causes of Elevated Levels
Elevated SGPT and SGOT levels typically signal liver damage or inflammation. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent cause, characterized by fat accumulation in the liver cells, which can lead to inflammation and damage. This condition is strongly associated with obesity, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Alcoholic liver disease results from heavy alcohol consumption directly damages liver cells. The liver’s attempt to process excessive alcohol can lead to inflammation and cell death.
Another frequent cause is medication-induced liver injury, where certain drugs, including some pain relievers and antibiotics, can harm liver cells.
Viral hepatitis causes liver inflammation and cell damage, leading to a rise in enzyme levels. Autoimmune hepatitis is a condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own liver cells.
Less common but significant causes include hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder causing excessive iron absorption and accumulation in the liver, and Wilson’s disease, where copper builds up to toxic levels in the liver and other organs. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, another genetic condition, can also lead to liver damage due to abnormal protein buildup.
Addressing High Levels Through Treatment
Treating elevated SGPT and SGOT levels involves addressing the specific underlying cause.
For non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, lifestyle modifications are foundational, including weight loss through a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Losing even a small percentage of body weight can reduce liver fat and inflammation.
For alcoholic liver disease, complete abstinence from alcohol is crucial for liver healing.
For medication-induced liver injury, discontinuing or adjusting the offending medication is usually the primary treatment.
Antiviral therapies effectively suppress the virus and reduce liver inflammation in chronic viral hepatitis.
Autoimmune hepatitis is managed with immunosuppressant medications, such as corticosteroids, which reduce the immune system’s attack on the liver, alleviating symptoms and preventing damage.
Genetic conditions also have targeted treatments: hemochromatosis is treated with phlebotomy to reduce iron levels, while Wilson’s disease requires copper-chelating agents to remove excess copper. For severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Monitoring and Lifestyle Management
Regular monitoring of SGPT and SGOT levels tracks the liver’s response to treatment. Healthcare providers often conduct follow-up blood tests to assess the effectiveness of interventions and adjust treatment plans as needed. This ongoing assessment helps ensure that enzyme levels return to a healthy range or remain stable.
Complementary to specific medical treatments, several lifestyle adjustments can support liver health and help manage enzyme levels. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is beneficial. Reducing intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive saturated fats can help prevent fat accumulation in the liver.
Regular physical activity also contributes to overall well-being and can aid in weight management, which is important for liver health. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is always advised, as it can strain the liver and exacerbate existing conditions. Additionally, individuals should use all medications and supplements cautiously, consulting with a healthcare provider to ensure they do not negatively impact liver function.