SGOT stands for Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase. It is now commonly called AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase). It is a blood test mainly used to look for liver-cell injury, although AST is also found in muscles, the heart, and other tissues.
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What does the test measure?
It measures the amount of AST/SGOT enzyme in your blood. When cells containing AST are damaged, AST can leak into the bloodstream and the level may rise.
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Why is SGOT tested?
Doctors may order it to:
Check for possible liver damage or liver disease
Monitor an existing liver condition
Evaluate abnormal liver-function tests
Usually assess it together with SGPT/ALT, bilirubin, ALP, and other LFTs rather than by itself.
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Normal SGOT/AST range
A commonly cited range is approximately 8–33 U/L, but the reference range can differ between laboratories. Always use the range printed on your own report.
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What can cause high SGOT?
An elevated result can occur with:
Hepatitis or other liver inflammation
Fatty/liver disease or cirrhosis
Alcohol or certain medicines
Muscle injury or strenuous exercise
Heart problems
Pancreatitis
Recent surgery, seizures, burns, etc.
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Important: A high SGOT does not automatically mean liver disease, because AST also comes from muscle and other tissues. The AST result should be interpreted along with ALT/SGPT and the rest of the liver panel.
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If you have your SGOT/AST report, send me the value, unit (usually U/L), laboratory reference range, and your SGPT/ALT value. I can explain what your results mean. in nidan pathology laboratory @location
