Your report says SGPT is 58 and the lab has marked it in red. Should you panic? Not usually. But it deserves attention. Let me explain what these liver tests show.
What the main tests mean
- SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST): enzymes released when liver cells are irritated. ALT is more specific to the liver. AST can also come from muscles and heart.
- ALP and GGT: show problems in the bile ducts. ALP also rises with bone problems.
- Bilirubin: the yellow pigment that causes jaundice when high.
- Albumin and INR: show how well the liver is making proteins and clotting factors.
Mild rise: common causes
The commonest cause of mildly raised SGPT in India is fatty liver. Other causes include alcohol, some medicines (like certain painkillers, TB drugs, some herbal products), hepatitis B and C, viral fever, hard exercise before the test, and rarely autoimmune or inherited conditions.
What your doctor may do
- Ask about alcohol, medicines and supplements, family history and weight.
- Examine you and check your waist.
- Order an ultrasound of the abdomen.
- Check sugar, cholesterol, and tests for hepatitis B and C when needed.
- Repeat the tests after 6 to 8 weeks of lifestyle changes.
What you can do now
- Avoid alcohol.
- Do not take herbal or “liver detox” products. Some can harm the liver.
- Do not stop prescription medicines on your own. Ask your doctor.
- Lose weight if needed, walk daily, cut sugar and fried food.
See a doctor quickly if
You have yellow eyes or urine, severe stomach pain, vomiting, swelling of the legs or belly, black stools, or confusion. These need prompt care.
If you live in Gopanpally, Gowlidoddi, Nallagandla or Tellapur, or work in the Financial District or Nanakramguda, you can get a liver and metabolic health check at our clinic in Gachibowli. Our diagnostics are open from 6 AM to 11 PM daily. Contact us to book.
Keep reading
Your family doctor,
Akhila Reddy
MBBS, DNB (Family Medicine) | TSMC Reg. No. APMC/FMR/74261
AMC Hospital, Gopanpally, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
This article is for general health education and does not replace a check-up. Every person is different, so please speak to your doctor before changing any medicine. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.
References
- Kwo PY et al. ACG clinical guideline: evaluation of abnormal liver chemistries. Am J Gastroenterol 2017;112(1):18-35.
- Duseja A et al. INASL guidance paper on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2015;5(1):51-68.
- Indian National Association for Study of the Liver. Patient information. https://www.inasl.org.in