Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, an enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells. SGPT is released into blood when the liver or heart are damaged. The blood SGPT levels are thus elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise SGPT levels. Also called alanine aminotransferase (ALT).

See Alanine Aminotransferase.

Serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase; former name for alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

(Serum glutamic pyruvate transaminase) Also known as ALT (alanine aminotransaminase), a liver enzyme that plays a role in protein metabolism similar to that of SGOT. Elevated serum levels of SGPT are a sign of liver damage from disease or drugs.

Serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase. An enzyme found in the liver and other tissues. A high level of SGPT released into the blood may be a sign of liver damage, cancer, or other diseases. Also called alanine transferase.

Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase. An enzyme present in the same tissues as SGOT. Its appearance in serum is a marker of tissue damage similar to SGOT, but it is a more specific indicator of liver damage. It is also known as alanine aminotransferase (ALT).

See serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase.