Liver Function Test (LFT): SGPT, SGOT & Bilirubin Explained

The liver is the body's primary chemical processing plant. It filters blood, metabolizes nutrients, stores vitamins, produces bile for digestion, and detoxifies harmful chemicals. Because of its massive workload, the liver is prone to stress from poor diet, alcohol, and medications. A Liver Function Test (LFT) helps check how well the liver is functioning.

Key LFT Markers & What They Mean

• SGPT (ALT - Alanine Aminotransferase): An enzyme found primarily in the liver. When liver cells are damaged, SGPT leaks into the bloodstream. It is the most specific marker for liver injury.
• SGOT (AST - Aspartate Aminotransferase): An enzyme found in the liver, heart, and muscles. High SGOT levels can indicate liver injury, but also muscle damage.
• Bilirubin: A yellowish pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. High levels cause jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin) and indicate bile duct blockage or liver dysfunction.
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme related to the bile ducts and bones. High levels point to gallstones, bile duct inflammation, or bone disease.

Causes of Elevated SGPT and SGOT

If your blood test shows high liver enzymes, common culprits include:

1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Fat accumulation in liver cells, highly common in individuals with obesity, diabetes, or insulin resistance.
2. Alcohol Consumption: Regular alcohol intake causes inflammation and scarring of liver tissue (alcoholic hepatitis).
3. Medication Overuse: Over-the-counter painkillers (like paracetamol) or cholesterol-lowering medications can stress the liver.
4. Viral Hepatitis: Infections like Hepatitis A, B, or C directly damage liver cells.

Tips to Improve Liver Health

• Reduce consumption of fried foods, refined sugars, and processed fats.
• Limit alcohol consumption to avoid liver cell toxicity.
• Exercise regularly to burn fat accumulated inside the liver.