Test Overview An aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test measures the amount of this enzyme red blood cells liver pancreas
Low levels of AST are normally found in the blood. When body tissue or an organ such as the heart or liver is diseased or damaged, additional AST is released into the bloodstream. The amount of AST in the blood is directly related to the extent of the tissue damage. After severe damage, AST levels rise in 6 to 10 hours and remain high for about 4 days.
The AST test may be done at the same time as a test for alanine aminotransferase, or ALT. The ratio of AST to ALT sometimes can help determine whether the liver or another organ has been damaged. Both ALT and AST levels can test for liver damage.
Why It Is Done
This test is done to:
Check for liver damage. Help look for liver disease, such as hepatitis. Liver disease may cause symptoms. These may include pain in the upper belly, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes jaundice. Check to see how well treatment for liver disease is working. Find out if jaundice was caused by a blood disorder or liver disease. Keep track of the effects of cholesterol-lowering medicines and other medicines that can damage the liver. How To Prepare
In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.
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How It Is Done
A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.
How long the test takes The test will take a few minutes.
Watch How It Feels
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
Risks
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Results
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
Results are usually available within 12 hours.
High values High levels of AST may be caused by:
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Current as of: April 30, 2024
