Health guide
Liver Function Test (LFT): what SGPT, SGOT and bilirubin mean
A Liver Function Test, or LFT, is a panel of blood markers that shows how well your liver is working and whether its cells are under stress. It is a routine part of most health checkups. Mildly raised liver enzymes are a very common finding (often from fatty liver) and are frequently reversible with the right changes, which is why understanding the numbers matters.
Reviewed by Dr. Vishal Singh, Lab Director
When to check your liver
- Ongoing tiredness or low energy
- Discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Being overweight or living with diabetes (fatty liver risk)
- Regular alcohol use or long-term medication
- As part of a routine full body checkup
What the LFT measures
SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST) are enzymes released when liver cells are stressed or injured, so raised levels flag the liver for a closer look. Bilirubin reflects how well the liver clears waste. A high level causes jaundice. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) relates to the bile ducts, and the proteins albumin and total protein show the liver's synthetic function.
What raised values can mean
A mild rise in SGPT and SGOT is most often due to fatty liver, especially with extra weight or diabetes, and frequently improves with diet, exercise, and cutting alcohol. Larger rises, or a raised bilirubin, need a doctor's assessment and sometimes a repeat test or an ultrasound. Read our fatty liver guide if your enzymes are mildly high, and always discuss results with your doctor.
This guide is for general information and is not a diagnosis. Always discuss your symptoms and results with a doctor. LabONE includes a free doctor consultation with every report.
Tests that help
Recommended panel
LiverShield
8 parameters in one panel
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal SGPT (ALT) level?
It is typically up to around 40 U/L, but the exact cut-off varies by lab, so check the reference range printed on your report. A mildly raised value is common and usually needs a doctor's interpretation rather than alarm.
Do I need to fast for a liver function test?
Fasting is not strictly required for an LFT, but if it is part of a full body checkup with a lipid or sugar test, follow the 10-12 hour fasting advice for those. When in doubt, book a morning slot and ask MIRA.
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