Hindustan Laboratory

SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase, AST) Test

The SGOT Test, also known as the Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test, measures the level of the AST enzyme in your blood. AST is found in the liver, heart, muscles, and other tissues, and elevated levels may indicate damage to these organs. At Hindustan Laboratory, we provide accurate SGOT testing to assess liver, heart, and muscle health.

What is an SGOT (AST) Test?

The SGOT test quantifies the amount of AST enzyme in a blood sample. AST is released into the bloodstream when cells in the liver, heart, or muscles are damaged, making it a key marker for diagnosing conditions like liver disease, heart attack, or muscle injury. The test is often performed alongside other liver function tests, such as SGPT (ALT), for a comprehensive assessment.

Purpose of the SGOT Test

• Diagnose liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver.
• Detect heart damage, such as from a heart attack or myocarditis.
• Evaluate muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy or rhabdomyolysis.
• Monitor the effects of medications or treatments that may affect the liver or heart.
• Assess overall health during routine checkups, especially in patients with risk factors like alcohol use or obesity.

SGOT Reference Range

Note: Normal ranges may vary slightly depending on laboratory standards, age, gender, or patient factors. Always consult your doctor for interpretation.

Preparation for the SGOT Test

Minimal preparation is typically required for an SGOT test. However, consider these guidelines:

• Inform your doctor about medications (e.g., statins, antibiotics, or painkillers) or supplements, as they may affect AST levels.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or muscle injury before the test, as these can elevate AST levels.
• Fasting is usually not required, but follow any specific instructions provided by Hindustan Laboratory (e.g., fasting for combined liver function tests).
• Notify our team of recent conditions like alcohol consumption or liver-related symptoms, which may influence results.

Procedure

The SGOT test is a simple and quick blood test:

1. A healthcare professional cleans the site (usually your arm) with an antiseptic.
2. A needle is inserted into a vein to collect a small blood sample.
3. The sample is sent to our advanced laboratory, where AST levels are measured using automated analyzers.
4. The procedure takes less than 5 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.

Interpreting SGOT Test Results

Your SGOT (AST) results are compared to standard reference ranges. Abnormal results may indicate:

• High AST Levels:
  • Causes: Liver damage (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver), heart attack, muscle injury (e.g., rhabdomyolysis), alcohol abuse, or certain medications.
  • Symptoms: Jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, chest pain, or muscle weakness, depending on the underlying condition.
• Low AST Levels:
  • Causes: Typically not clinically significant; may occur in vitamin B6 deficiency or healthy individuals.
  • Symptoms: Usually none.

AST is often interpreted alongside SGPT (ALT) and other liver function tests. A high AST/ALT ratio may suggest heart or muscle damage, while a low ratio may indicate liver disease. Always consult your doctor for a detailed interpretation, considering your medical history, symptoms, and other test results.

Why Choose Hindustan Laboratory for SGOT Testing?

• Advanced analyzers for precise AST measurements and comprehensive liver function testing.
• Experienced laboratory professionals ensuring reliable and timely results.
• Comfortable, hygienic, and patient-friendly testing environment.
• Fast result delivery to support prompt diagnosis and treatment.