Oxaloacetic transaminase measurement is used to diagnose and monitor liver diseases, especially those that result in hepatocellular destruction.
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Aspartic aminotransferase (AST) or oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) is an enzyme in the heart, liver, and muscles. It is released into the circulation after injury or death of cells. AST levels usually increase within 12 hours of injury and remain elevated for 5 days. Thus, this test is one of many performed when there is damage to the myocardium, such as myocardial infarction, and when assessing liver damage. Other cardiac enzymes also evaluated are creatine kinase (CK) isozymes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and troponin.
For liver injury monitoring, SGOT is evaluated with pyruvate transaminase (SGPT / ALT). The values of the two transaminases usually exist in a ratio of about 1:1. The value of SGOT is higher than that of SGPT in alcohol-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, and metastatic liver cancer. SGPT is greater than SGOT in the case of viral or medicinal hepatitis. The degree of increase in enzyme levels provides information on the possible cause of the problem. A two-fold increase usually indicates obstruction, while a 10-fold increase in SGOT and SGPT usually indicates hepatitis.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Acute kidney disease, biliary obstruction, bone metastases, brain injury, prostate cancer, cirrhosis, eclampsia, gangrene, hemolytic disease, hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, liver cancer, myocardial infarction, pancreatitis, progressive muscle dystrophy, pulmonary infarction, Reye's syndrome, shock, severe burns, trauma. Medications: Paracetamol, allopurinol, antibiotics, ascorbic acid, chlorpropamide, cholestyramine, cholinergic, clofibrate, codeine, statins, hydralazine, isoniazid, meperidine, methyldopa, morphine, oral contraceptives, phenothiazines, procainamide, pyridoxine, salicylates, sulphonamides, verapamil, Vitamin A
- Decrease: Berry-berry, diabetic ketoacidosis, dialysis, pregnancy, uremia. Medications: Metronidazole, trifluoperazine
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70 to 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
