[SGPT determination as a routine screening procedure in blood donors?]

Liver biopsy was carried out in 103 patients with elevated transaminases. In 46 patients (44.5%) histological examination produced the diagnosis of a chronic persistent non-A, non-B hepatitis, whereas in 57 patients (55.5%) steatosis was found. Laboratory findings showed that SGOT is of little use in distinguishing these two diseases. SGPT and the SGOT/SGPT quotient indicate the existence of a CPH-NANB in 93.5 and 89% respectively. We therefore conclude that SGPT should be determined in all blood donors as indirect screening to identify carriers of NANB.