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LFT report: SGPT, SGOT, bilirubin and other liver test values explained
A liver function test, or LFT, is a group of blood tests that show how well the liver is working and whether liver cells are under strain. The names on Indian reports often mix old and new terms: SGPT is ALT, and SGOT is AST.
What each value means
| On your report | What it measures | Typical adult range |
|---|---|---|
| SGPT (ALT) | Enzyme released when liver cells are stressed | Up to about 40–50 U/L |
| SGOT (AST) | Enzyme in liver, heart and muscle | Up to about 40 U/L |
| Total bilirubin | Yellow pigment the liver clears | 0.3–1.2 mg/dL |
| Direct (conjugated) bilirubin | The share the liver has processed | Below 0.3 mg/dL |
| Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) | Enzyme from liver bile ducts and bone | About 40–130 U/L in adults |
| GGT | Enzyme linked to bile flow and alcohol | Men below 55 U/L; women below 38 U/L |
| Albumin | Main protein the liver makes | 3.5–5.2 g/dL |
| Total protein / A:G ratio | All blood proteins / albumin to globulin | 6.0–8.3 g/dL / about 1.0–2.1 |
Ranges differ between laboratories, machines, age groups and in pregnancy. The range printed on your own report is the one that applies to you.
What raised values may relate to
A mildly raised SGPT is very common and is often linked to fatty liver, alcohol, some medicines or a recent viral illness; heavy exercise can raise SGOT too. Raised bilirubin causes the yellow colour of jaundice. The pattern across the tests, and how high they are, is what helps a doctor, not any single number.
Before the test
Most labs suggest fasting for a few hours. Tell your doctor about any medicines, herbal or ayurvedic products and alcohol, since all of them can affect liver results.
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Read my reportCommon questions
What is SGPT in a blood test?
SGPT, also called ALT, is an enzyme mostly found in the liver. When liver cells are irritated or damaged, more of it enters the blood.
Is a slightly high SGPT dangerous?
A small rise is common and often temporary. Your doctor decides whether to repeat the test or look further, based on how high it is and your history.
What is the normal bilirubin level?
Total bilirubin is usually about 0.3–1.2 mg/dL in adults. Newborns have different ranges.
Other lab test guides
Complete blood count (CBC) · Thyroid profile (TSH, T3, T4) · Lipid profile (cholesterol test) · Kidney function test (KFT / RFT) · HbA1c and blood sugar tests · Vitamin D and vitamin B12 tests
This guide is general information for adults, not medical advice and not a diagnosis. Only a qualified doctor can interpret your results. Updated 2026-10-06. See the medical disclaimer.