SGOT / AST Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Aspartate aminotransferase, still widely written as SGOT on Nepali lab reports, is an enzyme found inside liver cells but also in heart muscle, skeletal muscle, kidney, and red blood cells. When any of these tissues are injured, the enzyme leaks into the bloodstream and the level rises, which is why this single number is one of the most ordered markers of cellular damage. Doctors most often request it as part of a liver function test, alongside ALT (SGPT), bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and albumin, to investigate yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, right-sided abdominal pain, persistent tiredness, nausea, or swelling. Because AST is not specific to the liver, its real value comes from comparison: an AST that climbs far higher than ALT points towards alcohol-related liver disease, cirrhosis, or muscle and heart injury, whereas ALT rising above AST is more typical of viral hepatitis or fatty liver. In Kathmandu the common reasons for a raised AST include hepatitis B and hepatitis C, alcohol use, non-alcoholic fatty liver linked to rising rates of obesity and diabetes, and occasionally drug-induced injury from anti-tubercular treatment or unregulated herbal and over-the-counter remedies. It is also tracked repeatedly during long courses of medication to catch liver strain early. Mildly raised readings are frequently harmless and settle on a repeat test, so the result should always be read together with your symptoms, the AST-to-ALT ratio, and the rest of the liver panel rather than judged on its own.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required for the test alone. If it is ordered as part of a liver panel or with a lipid profile, follow the fasting instructions for those. Mention any recent strenuous exercise, intramuscular injections, or medicines you take, as these can raise the value.

Turnaround time

Reports for SGOT / AST are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other biochemistry tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside SGOT / AST or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.