Elevated SGPT

  I recently had a blood chemistry profile for insurance purposes.  All of the results were normal other than a SGPT level of 65 and total cholesterol of 270.  I am not concerned about the cholestral level because the triglycerides were normal at 117 and the col/hdl ratio was ok at 3.8.  My urine and HIV results were clear. I have always had slightly high cholestral readings compensated by good HDL levels.  This is the first time I've had an abnormal liver function reading.  My SGOT reading was normal at 34.  I'm 33, white male, 5'11", 180lbs, in good health but in need of exercise, under tremendous stress as a result of running a start-up company, in a new country and a new home.  I emigrated from South Africa six months ago. To date I've been in good health, no symptoms of malaria, hepatitis, etc.  I do not over-indulge in alcohol nor I'm I on any medication.  Is the SGPT level sufficiently high for concern?
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Dear Robin,
The elevated SGPT indicates that the liver cells are not entirely normal.  They may be either leaky or damaged and dying.  You list the possible causes in your e-mail: fatty liver, alcohol-induced liver damage, hepatitis and medication-induced liver disease. Autoimmune liver disease and metabolic diseases e.g iron overload [hemochromatosis] are other explanations.
I would not worry unduly about these elevations at this time.  My suggestions include going on a diet to lose weight and stopping alcohol completely.  Additionally, you should have your liver tests checked monthly.  If your valuea normalize during the course of the next six months, then nothing further is needed.  If, however, the levels remain high, then a liver biopsy would be indicated.
This information is presented for educational purposes only.  Always consult your personal physician for specific medical questions.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: liver tests, fatty liver, liver biopsy
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