SGOT
The SGOT (Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase), also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), test measures the level of this enzyme in the blood. SGOT is found mainly in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, and brain. It is released into the bloodstream when these tissues are damaged, making it an important marker for detecting organ injury.
Elevated SGOT levels may indicate liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver, or cirrhosis. It can also rise in conditions affecting the heart (like heart attack) or muscles (injury or inflammation). Since SGOT is not specific to the liver alone, it is usually interpreted along with other tests like SGPT (ALT) for accurate diagnosis. Doctors often recommend this test when there are symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, or suspected liver or muscle damage.
The SGOT test is simple and requires a small blood sample. Accurate results help doctors assess organ health, diagnose underlying conditions, and monitor treatment effectively.