SGOT, or serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, is another name for the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (AST). AST is a protein produced by liver cells, and its levels in the blood are measured to assess liver health.
When liver cells are damaged, AST leaks into the bloodstream, causing elevated levels. This elevation can indicate liver damage or disease.
An SGOT test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of AST present in the blood. The results of the test are compared to a normal range, and any significant deviations can signal potential liver problems.
The test can be used to:
- Diagnose liver disease
- Monitor the progress of liver disease
- Detect liver damage caused by other conditions, such as heart attack or cancer
It's important to note that elevated AST levels can also occur due to other factors, such as:
- Muscle damage
- Heart attack
- Kidney disease
- Certain medications
Therefore, a high SGOT level alone is not a definitive diagnosis of liver disease. Further investigation and a thorough medical evaluation are usually required to determine the underlying cause of the elevated AST levels.
