What are SGPT & SGOT?

Liver function tests are one of the blood tests that are most commonly performed to assess the function of the liver or injury caused to the liver. Liver damage is detected initially by performing a simple blood test that determines the level of various liver enzymes present in the blood. The most widely used liver enzymes that are sensitive to abnormalities in liver and are most commonly measured are the aminotransferases. The two aminotransferases that are checked are the alanine aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST or SGOT). These liver enzymes form a major constituent of the liver cells. They are present in lesser concentration in the muscle cells. When the liver cells get damaged or injured, these enzymes seep into the blood stream, raising their blood levels. Hence raised blood levels of SGOT and SGPT signifies liver disease or injury.  (Courtesy: http://www.med-health.net/Sgot-Sgpt.html)