Elevated SGOT/SGPT ratio in alcoholic patients with acetaminophen hepatotoxicity

Abstract

Two alcoholic patients with acetaminophen hepatotoxicity are described. Both patients had very high SGOT levels and SGOT/SGPT ratios. It is suggested that a high SGOT/SGPT ratio is not specific for alcoholic hepatitis. Extreme elevations of this ratio, especially in association with SGOT levels greater than five times normal, should suggest nonalcoholic causes of hepatocellular necrosis in alcoholic patients.