Product Description

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), historically known as Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme primarily found in the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys, and brain. This blood test measures AST levels to detect tissue damage, particularly liver injury.

Purpose & Clinical Use

• Detecting Liver Injury: Evaluates for conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver damage caused by alcohol or medications.

• Monitoring Treatments: Tracks the progression of known liver diseases or monitors potential liver toxicity from long-term prescription drugs (e.g., statins).

• Part of a Broader Panel: Commonly ordered alongside ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) as part of a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) or Liver Function Test (LFT). Comparing the AST/ALT ratio helps pinpoint the specific underlying cause (for example, an AST to ALT ratio greater than 2:1 strongly suggests alcohol-induced liver damage).

Test Details

• Specimen: Standard blood draw (Serum or Plasma).

• Preparation: Fasting is usually not required unless AST is part of a broader panel (like a lipid or metabolic panel). Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before the test, as intense muscular exertion can temporarily elevate AST levels.

Interpreting Results

• Normal Range: Typically ranges between 8 to 40 U/L (units per liter), though exact reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex.

• Elevated Levels:

  • Mild to Moderate Elevation: Chronic hepatitis, fatty liver, alcohol consumption, physical trauma, or strenuous exercise.

  • Severe Elevation (10x+ Normal): Acute viral hepatitis, ischemic liver injury (shock liver), or severe toxin-induced liver damage (e.g., acetaminophen overdose).