Blood tests are a common part of routine health check-ups, providing valuable insights into the body’s internal workings. Among the many components measured, serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, or SGOT, is an enzyme frequently included in these panels. Understanding its significance helps individuals comprehend their health reports. This article will explain what SGOT is, what elevated levels might indicate, and factors that can influence its results.
Understanding SGOT
SGOT, also known as Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), is the more current name in medical contexts. This enzyme plays a role in amino acid metabolism. AST is found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells. Its presence in these diverse locations means that SGOT levels can provide clues about the health of multiple organ systems.
Interpreting Elevated SGOT Levels
When cells containing AST are damaged, the enzyme leaks into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels. High SGOT levels often suggest cellular injury. Liver damage is a primary concern when SGOT is elevated. Conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver toxicity from alcohol or medications commonly cause increases. For instance, viral hepatitis can lead to significantly high AST levels.
Heart conditions can also cause elevated SGOT. A heart attack, for example, can result in a rise in AST levels as damaged heart muscle releases the enzyme. Injuries to skeletal muscles, such as severe trauma, strenuous exercise, or muscle diseases like muscular dystrophy, can also increase SGOT.
While normal ranges can vary slightly between laboratories, typical AST levels are generally reported between 10 to 40 units per liter. Mild elevations might be two to three times the normal range, while severe elevations can reach levels in the thousands.
Other Influences on SGOT Results
Beyond major diseases, other factors can influence SGOT levels, sometimes causing temporary elevations. Intense physical exercise, for instance, can lead to a rise in AST due to muscle exertion. Certain medications, including some antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, and statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs), can also affect AST levels. Even over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can elevate AST if taken in high doses. Alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts, can also increase SGOT levels.
Other medical conditions not primarily associated with the liver or heart, such as celiac disease or thyroid disorders, have also been linked to elevated SGOT. When evaluating SGOT (AST) results, doctors often consider them alongside SGPT (ALT – Alanine Aminotransferase) levels. While SGOT is found in many tissues, ALT is more predominantly concentrated in the liver, making it a more specific indicator of liver damage. Interpreting both enzymes together provides a more comprehensive picture of organ health.
What to Do After an SGOT Test
An abnormal SGOT result is not a definitive diagnosis; it indicates a need for further medical investigation. If your SGOT levels are outside the typical range, consult a healthcare professional to discuss the findings. They will consider your overall medical history, symptoms, and other test results to determine the underlying cause.
Further evaluations might include repeat blood tests, additional liver function tests, imaging studies, or specialized assessments. Avoid self-diagnosing or self-treating based solely on SGOT levels. Professional medical advice is essential for accurate interpretation and management of any identified health concerns.