Indications for Aspartate Transaminase Blood Tests include:
Symptoms and signs of liver disease, such as:
To assess individuals at increased risk of developing liver disease, such as:
Monitoring individuals on drugs known to be toxic to the liver, or in monitoring individuals with known liver disease.
Sample required: Blood
Process: Blood sample is drawn through a needle inserted into the vein (arm).
Preparation required: None
The normal blood levels of Aspartate Transaminase, called the reference range for AST, may vary slightly from lab to lab. Hence, most lab reports come with a reference range, which is used in that particular centre. A physician interprets the results based on the reference values provided.
A standard reference range in wide use is 10-34 IU/L (international units per liter).
AST levels are increased in liver disease; some of the causes of which include:
Other conditions that may cause raised levels of AST include:
While the ALT (alanine transaminase) levels are usually elevated more than AST in liver disease, leading to an AST/ALT ratio < 1, some conditions like alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and heart/muscle damage, may cause an increased AST/ALT ratio > 1.
The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario.
Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.
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