What is SGPT?
SGPT stands for Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase, which is an important liver enzyme found in the bloodstream. SGPT is commonly used in liver function tests (LFTs) to evaluate liver health and diagnose potential liver disorders. It is also known by another name — ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase).
Role of SGPT in the Human Body
SGPT plays a critical role in the amino acid metabolism process. It is mostly found in liver cells, and when the liver is damaged or inflamed, SGPT levels increase in the bloodstream. Thus, SGPT levels act as a biomarker for liver injury, including conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver, or cirrhosis.
Normal Range of SGPT in Blood
The normal SGPT levels typically range between 7 to 56 units per liter (U/L). Higher levels may suggest liver disease, muscle injury, or even side effects of certain medications. It is often checked in routine blood tests and during health checkups to monitor liver function.
When is SGPT Test Recommended?
Doctors usually recommend an SGPT test if the patient shows signs of liver damage, including jaundice, fatigue, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain. It is also used to monitor the effect of medications on the liver and to track the progression of chronic liver diseases.
SGPT in Competitive Exams
For aspirants of government exams in the fields of teaching, paramedical, defence services, and civil services, understanding basic medical terminologies like SGPT is important, especially under general science, biology, or general awareness sections.

Why This News is Important
Relevance for Science and Health Awareness
The topic of SGPT is increasingly relevant due to rising concerns about liver health, lifestyle-related disorders, and frequent liver function tests as part of medical diagnostics. Understanding SGPT and related tests enables aspirants to answer science and health-related MCQs confidently in exams like SSC, RRB, NDA, and UPSC.
Medical Knowledge in Exams
Many government recruitment exams, particularly in the health, teaching, and defence sectors, include basic biology and health awareness. Knowledge of terms like SGPT helps in answering questions related to human anatomy, healthcare, diseases, and diagnostics.
Historical Context: Understanding SGPT in Medical Science
The term SGPT (Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase) became widely used in the mid-20th century as liver diagnostics gained attention in modern medicine. Over time, the terminology shifted to ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) as per international biochemical standards, though SGPT is still commonly used in India. The test remains a key part of Liver Function Tests (LFTs) globally.
Key Takeaways from “SGPT Full Form and Its Medical Importance”
S. No. | Key Takeaway |
---|---|
1 | SGPT stands for Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase, also known as ALT. |
2 | It is an enzyme used to assess liver health through liver function tests. |
3 | Normal SGPT levels range from 7 to 56 U/L in healthy individuals. |
4 | Elevated SGPT levels indicate liver damage, disease, or medication side effects. |
5 | SGPT is relevant for science and health-related questions in competitive exams. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the full form of SGPT?
A: SGPT stands for Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase.
Q2. Why is the SGPT test done?
A: It is done to assess liver function and detect liver-related issues such as hepatitis, fatty liver, or liver damage caused by medications.
Q3. What is the normal range of SGPT levels in the blood?
A: The normal range of SGPT in the blood is 7 to 56 units per liter (U/L).
Q4. What happens if SGPT levels are high?
A: High SGPT levels may indicate liver inflammation or damage, muscle injury, or side effects from medications.
Q5. In which exams is SGPT-related knowledge important?
A: Questions related to SGPT may appear in UPSC, SSC, RRB, CDS, AFCAT, Defence, Teaching, and Paramedical Exams under General Science or Biology.
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