SGPT Test - Normal Range, Price, Causes & Symptoms

• Test Detail
• Normal Range
• Causes
• Symptoms
• Procedure
• Preparation
• Tips
• Takeaway
• Price

The liver is an important body organ that regulates various biological functions. Any damage or injury in the liver can lead to disturbed body vitals. Liver disorders, injury, and damage commonly occur in our country. The liver blood test is a common diagnostic test to check the functioning of the liver. SGPT is a vital parameter whose levels decide whether or not your liver is functioning properly. Therefore, this article lets us know more about this parameter. This article deals with SGPT liver blood tests, its normal range, high ALT levels, causes, preparation, procedure, price, and symptoms.

What is SGPT?

Serum glutamic pyruvic aminotransferase (SGPT) is an enzyme belonging to the group aminotransferase. The enzyme is also called alanine aminotransferase (ALT). These enzymes are involved in the catalysis of chemical reactions, which involve the transfer of an amino group from one amino acid (donor molecule) to another molecule (recipient molecule). A liver blood test is generally done to analyse the functioning of the liver and detect liver injury or damage. Normally, liver enzymes stay inside the cell and are not found in the blood at a high concentration. Therefore, if a high concentration of liver enzymes is found in liver blood tests, it may indicate liver injury or damage. 

What is the SGPT normal range in a liver blood test?

The normal ALT levels may vary depending upon the laboratory and the protocol for testing the blood sample. On average, the normal levels of SGPT range between 7-56 units/litre of serum. If the SGPT levels in your liver blood test are greater than 56 units/litre, it is referred to as the danger level of SGPT and may indicate any form of injury or damage in the liver. 

What are the causes of high SGPT liver blood tests?

High levels of SGPT, levels may suggest liver damage or inflammation. Here are some common causes of high SGPT levels:

1. Hepatitis- Hepatitis B and C is a viral infection that can cause liver inflammation and damage, leading to high SGPT levels.
2. Fatty Liver Disease- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) result from the accumulation of fat in liver cells. This fat buildup can lead to liver inflammation and increased SGPT levels.
3. Alcohol Consumption- Excessive alcohol consumption can increase SGPT levels and can cause liver inflammation and damage.
4. Medications and Drugs- Some medications affect the liver and raise the SGPT levels. These medications may include statins, acetaminophen, antibiotics, and more.
5. Cirrhosis- Long term liver damage can lead to Cirrhosis and cause conditions like chronic alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, or fatty liver disease. Cirrhosis often causes high SGPT levels.
6. Muscle Damage- SGPT is also found in muscles and high SGPT levels can cause muscle damage, muscle diseases, or injuries. 

Heart-Related Issues: Some heart conditions, like congestive heart failure or a heart attack, can cause liver cell damage and high SGPT levels.

Other causes of high SGPT level may include:

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Cholecystitis, that is, gallbladder inflammation
• Infectious mononucleosis glandular fever caused by Epstein Barr virus
• Inflammation of the skin and muscles, known as dermatomyositis

The SGPT test is an indicator of potential liver or muscle damage, but further evaluation is needed to determine the exact cause. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests and consider your medical history and symptoms to identify the cause of health issues. Early detection and treatment of the root cause are essential for maintaining liver health and overall well-being.

What are the symptoms of High SGPT Levels?

High SGPT levels do not always manifest with noticeable symptoms in early stages. SGPT is an enzyme found in liver cells, and its elevation is often a sign of liver cell damage or inflammation. Many individuals with high SGPT levels may remain asymptomatic. While some may have potential symptoms advanced stages, these may include:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in legs
• Jaundice
• Excessive bleeding
• Abdominal Discomfort
• Weight loss
• Change in stool color

Since high SGPT levels may not trigger noticeable symptoms, regular monitoring through liver function tests (LFT test) is essential. These tests can detect liver damage and inflammation early, even before symptoms manifest. Regular SGPT testing is crucial, especially for people who are at risk due to factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption, viral infections, or a family history of liver disease.

Procedure of the SGPT Test

Here is the procedure for SGPT Test- 

• The SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase) test is a simple blood test that measures the levels of SGPT enzymes.
• During the SGPT test, the phlebotomist will clean the arm area with an antiseptic solution.
• After that he will tie an elastic band on the arm to make the veins swell with blood, making it easier to insert the needle.
• Next, using a sterile needle, he will draw a blood sample from a vein.
• The sample will then be collected in a tube and labelled with your name and other necessary details.
• Once the sample is collected, the needle will be removed, and a cotton ball or bandage will be placed over the puncture site to stop bleeding.

Preparation Required for the SGPT Test

The SGPT test requires no or minimal preparation. Simply follow the below guidelines-

• Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some medicines may affect your SGPT levels.
• Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before the test, as alcohol can affect liver enzyme levels.
• No fasting is required before the SGPT Test. You can eat and drink as usual before the test. 

Tips to follow to prevent high SGPT level

If you are looking for tips to prevent high SGPT levels, then you are at the right place. There are many things you can do, including adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking precautions to protect your liver. Explore more tips below for reducing the risk of liver damage and elevated SGPT:

• Limit Alcohol Consumption- Excessive alcohol intake can lead to liver inflammation and damage, raising SGPT levels. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation, and avoid drinking alcohol if you have a history of liver issues. 
• Practice Safe Medication Use- Be cautious with over-the-counter and prescription medications. Follow the prescribed medications only.
• Vaccinate Against Hepatitis- Hepatitis B and C are common causes of liver inflammation. Get vaccinated if you are at risk. 
• Maintain a Healthy Weight- Obesity and excessive body fat can lead to fatty liver disease. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Healthy Diet- Take a nutrient rich diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid saturated fats and processed foods. 
• Exercise Regularly- Regular exercise helps to reduce the risk of fatty liver disease and maintain a healthy weight. Try to do exercise daily for at least 1 hour. 
• Stay Hydrated- Drink enough water, as it helps to detoxify your body. 
• Regular Check-ups- Schedule regular health check-ups to monitor your liver function and overall health. Taking the LFT test from Redcliffe Labs for early detection of liver issues can lead to better outcomes.

Takeaway 

Your liver is a powerful organ that performs a vital function of filtering toxins and producing proteins. The levels of SGPT in blood tests act as an important biomarker to determine the health of your liver. The test helps to measure an enzyme (alanine aminotransferase) found primarily in the liver cells. When the liver is damaged or inflamed, these enzymes leak into the blood, and raise SGPT levels. This may cause various liver conditions, including hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or even medication side effects. If you have any doubt or noticing symptoms, don't wait, consult your doctor and take the SGPT test. The test allows to detect liver problems in early stages that helps to monitor the condition and get treated on time. By monitoring these enzyme levels, doctors can gain valuable insights and work towards keeping your liver functioning optimally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What does it mean if SGPT is high?

High SGPT levels indicate liver damage or injury. High SGPT levels can be caused by various factors such as hepatitis, alcohol abuse, fatty liver disease, medications, and certain medical conditions.

• What should I do if my SGPT is high?

To lower your SGPT levels, take a healthy balanced diet, avoid alcohol consumption, quit smoking, and exercise regularly.

• What food causes high SGPT?

Food includes alcohol, fried food, added sugar, white bread, pasta, rice, added salt, and red meat.

• What lifestyle factors can contribute to high SGPT levels?

Lifestyle factors like excessive alcohol consumption, poort diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking and medications can cause high SGPT levels. 

• Can SGPT levels fluctuate over time, and if so, what could be the reason?

Yes, SGPT levels can fluctuate over time, due to various reasons like medicine changes, food, alcohol consumption, viral infections, physical activity and various medical conditions.