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SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase)

Also referred as

AST

Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase

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An SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test measures serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) enzyme levels in the blood. This test helps check your liver health and detect underlying diseases like jaundice, hepatitis, etc. It may be done as part of a routine health checkup or liver function test to detect liver damage.

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Understanding SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase)

SGOT, also known as aspartate aminotransferase or AST is a liver enzyme that helps convert the food you eat into energy, which is used for various body functions. When liver cells are damaged, SGOT leaks into the bloodstream, raising its level in the blood. Apart from the liver, SGOT is also found in other parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, brain, and muscles. When cells in any of these organs are damaged, SGOT levels may rise.

An SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test may be performed if you experience symptoms suggesting liver damage or disease, such as loss of appetite, belly pain and swelling, dark-colored urine, bruises, vomiting, and the yellowing of the skin and eyes. However, this test does not tell you how much liver damage has occurred. It may also help monitor or track the recovery process of any known liver problems or evaluate the side effects of certain medicines you might be taking. Usually, no special preparation is required for an SGOT test; eat and drink as per your daily routine.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your liver health, and formulate your overall treatment plan.

What does SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase) measure?

An SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test measures the levels of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), an enzyme produced by the liver. SGOT is present in most body cells, most abundantly in the liver and heart. The primary function of this enzyme is to convert food into glycogen (a form of glucose), which is stored in the cells, primarily the liver. The body uses this glycogen to generate energy for various body functions.

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FAQs related to SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase)

What is the full form of an SGOT test?

An SGOT test stands for serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase test.

What is aspartate transaminase?

Aspartate transaminase is an enzyme that is mainly present in the liver and helps the liver convert food into energy. Its high levels in the brain are an indicator of liver or muscle damage.

What are the other names for an SGOT blood test?

An SGOT blood test is also known as an aspartate transaminase (AST) or aspartate aminotransferase test.

What does an SGOT blood test indicate?

An SGOT blood test indicates the health of your liver by measuring the amount of SGOT in your blood. Abnormal levels of SGOT may indicate a liver problem.

How is an SGOT test performed?

A trained professional will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take a blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Is fasting required before an SGOT test?

No, fasting is not required before an SGOT test. You can eat or drink as per your daily schedule before the test.

What are the signs and symptoms associated with abnormal SGOT levels?

The symptoms associated with abnormal SGOT levels are the yellowish color of your eyes and skin, loss of appetite, easy bruising, excessive bleeding, swelling and pain in the belly, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fatigue.

What happens if my SGOT level is low?

If your test result shows low SGOT levels, it might be an indication of vitamin B6 deficiency. Consult your doctor if your test reports are abnormal to get the best possible advice.

What happens if my SGOT level is high?

If your test result shows high levels of SGOT, it might be a sign of chronic hepatitis; liver scarring; liver cancer; and heart, kidney, or muscle damage. Other conditions that may cause high SGOT levels may include liver abscess, metastatic or primary liver cancer, right heart failure, ischemia or hypoxia, extensive trauma, and medicines that cause cholestasis or hepatotoxicity. Consult your doctor if your test reports are abnormal to get the best possible advice.

How can I manage my SGOT levels naturally?

You must consult your doctor if your SGOT levels are high. However, some dietary interventions and healthy lifestyle choices can help you to keep your SGOT levels in a healthy range. Eat nutrient-rich, plant-based food as it keeps your liver in good health. Avoid too much salt or sodium-rich food, and oily or processed food items. Refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking to improve your SGOT levels.

Content created by

Dr. Anupriya Nautiyal

MD Pathology, MBBS

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Last Updated

9th Oct 2025