SGOT (AST)

The SGOT blood test is one of the most important blood tests that is used to evaluate liver disease. Liver diseases are most difficult to detect in their early stages since people with liver disease rarely report any signs or symptoms. However, SGOT tests can help in detecting the areas of concern related to liver disease at an early stage.

What is an SGOT Blood test?

The SGOT test, also known as the AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test, is a simple blood test that measures the amount of SGOT (Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase) in a person's blood. SGOT is an enzyme that is mostly found in the liver, but is also found in lower concentrations in the heart, kidneys, and muscles.

SGOT is nothing but an enzyme that is involved in the amino acids metabolism. SGOT is often found in the blood, but in very low amounts. However, whenever there is damage to the liver cells, then SGOT is released into the blood,  which increases the level of SGOT in the blood and helps in diagnosing liver disease. Therefore doctor recommends the SGOT blood test to determine the extent of the liver damage

Which factor influences the SGOT level?

The factors that influence the levels of SGOT are listed below:

• As the person grows older, their SGOT levels also fluctuate in the body.
• Women have lower SGOT levels than men because men have more muscle mass and differing hormonal levels.
• People who have diabetes have higher SGOT levels
• People who are undergoing surgery also have elevated levels of SGOT in the blood
• People who are obese also have high SGOT levels.

How do I prepare for an SGOT Blood test?

• Inform your doctor about your medical history
• Fasting is generally not required for this test
• No further specific preparation is required for this test

What is the procedure for an SGOT blood test?

The procedure for the SGOT blood test is listed below:

• A phlebotomist will tie a rubber band around your arm so that they can find the vein from which the blood sample will be drawn properly.
• After finding the appropriate vein, an alcohol swab will be used to clean the area, and then a sterile needle will be injected into the vein to collect your blood sample
• During this time, you might feel a slight pinching pain due to needle insertion 
• After the collection of your blood sample. Your puncture site will be covered with a bandage or a cotton ball, and a rubber band will be removed
• The collected blood sample will then be sent to the lab for further analysis. 

What is the SGOT Blood test normal range?

The SGOT test normal range is listed below:

• SGOT Normal Range: The normal range for SGOT is typically 10 to 40 units per liter (U/L), though this can vary significantly based on the testing laboratory and procedures utilized.
• Males' SGOT levels may be somewhat higher within this normal range due to increased muscle mass, which can alter enzyme levels.
• Females have the same normal range for SGOT, although hormonal changes, pregnancy, or menstrual cycles may cause slight variation.

What does the high SGOT blood test report mean?

If your SGOT blood test report says you have a high level og SGOT, then it means that you might have the following conditions:

• Liver cancer: Some of the most serious causes of high SGOT levels are liver cancer.
• Jaundice: high level of SGOT can indicate jaundice
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: People who do not drink heavily can also have an accumulation of fat in their livers. This disease, called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Over time, NAFLD can cause liver inflammation, which further results in elevated SGOT levels, and If left untreated, it can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.
• Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage the liver, leading to alcoholic fatty liver disease, which therefore makes the liver swell from the fat, damaging liver cells and increasing SGOT levels.
• Liver Cirrhosis: NAFLD, alcoholism, and viral infections can all cause long-term liver damage, eventually leading to cirrhosis. As a result, the liver develops scar tissue. Such hardened tissues are unable to function efficiently, resulting in inefficient blood flow, which worsens the liver's condition. Enhanced liver damage causes inflammation, which raises SGOT levels.
• Medications: Some medications, such as statins, antiepileptic drugs, and acetaminophen, can also damage the liver, which can further increase the level of SGOT in the blood
• Muscle Damage: SGOT is most commonly increased in the blood when there is any damage to the liver however, it can also be found in muscles. SGOT elevation can occur as a result of severe muscle injury from trauma, exercise, or muscle illness such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It is critical to distinguish between high SGOT in the liver and muscle, and additional testing may be required.

Conclusion 

The SGOT blood test is a simple yet very powerful screening tool for your liver. getting your self chcecked regularly, eating a healthy diet can help manage liver problems and improve health outcomes. Liver can be treated easily if the damage is identified at an early stage because the liver generally does not show any symptoms until enough damage is already done to it, therefore it is your duty to take care of your liver. Early diagnosis can help in preventing the severe life-threatening complications  and give your doctor enough options for deciding the best treatment plan for you

Frequently Asked Questions?

What is the full form of SGOT?

The full form of SGOT is Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase

What is the SGOT blood test cost in Delhi?

The SGOT blood test price in Delhi may range from INR 150 to INR 500; the prices may vary by diagnostic center based on the location, technology, and the facilities available at the diagnostic center.

Where can I find the SGOT blood test near me?

You can book your SGOT blood test near your location at the best price in Delhi at city Xray clinic. To know more information, please visit our website.

What are the side effects of SGOT blood test?

There are no side effects of SGOT blood test; you might feel a little pain or a pinching sensation when the needle is inserted into the vein for blood sample collection.

What is the SGOT blood test normal range?

The normal range for SGOT blood test is 10 to 40 units per liter (U/L), though this can vary significantly based on the testing laboratory and procedures utilized.