Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST, SGOT)

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme found in several organs, but primarily in the liver and heart. The AST test measures the level of this enzyme in the blood to help detect liver or muscle damage.

1. What Is AST?

• AST is an enzyme involved in amino acid metabolism, facilitating the transfer of amino groups between molecules.

• It is found in high concentrations in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells.

• When cells in these organs are damaged, AST leaks into the bloodstream, making it a useful diagnostic marker.

2. Why Is the AST Test Performed?

The test is used to:

• Evaluate liver function and detect liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis).

• Assess muscle injury or inflammation (e.g., rhabdomyolysis).

• Monitor the effects of medications or toxins on the liver.

• Help differentiate causes of jaundice and abdominal pain.

3. AST Reference Ranges

• Normal range: 10 – 40 U/L (units per liter) in adults.

• Reference values may vary slightly depending on the lab and individual characteristics.

4. How to Interpret AST Results

🔹 Elevated AST:

• Common in liver conditions such as hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or liver cancer.

• Can also result from muscle injury, heart attack, or strenuous exercise.

• AST is not liver-specific and is best interpreted alongside ALT and other liver enzymes.

🔹 Normal or low AST:

• Typically indicates no significant liver or muscle damage. Low values are rarely concerning.

5. What Can Affect AST Levels?

• Liver diseases (e.g., viral hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis)

• Muscle damage (e.g., trauma, seizures, intense exercise)

• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)

• Medications (e.g., statins, acetaminophen, antibiotics)

• Alcohol consumption

6. How to Support Healthy AST Levels

• Limit alcohol intake and avoid liver-toxic substances

• Use medications as directed and avoid unnecessary drug use

• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine

• Manage chronic conditions such as hepatitis or high cholesterol

7. When to See a Doctor

🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Have elevated AST on blood tests

• Experience fatigue, jaundice, nausea, or abdominal pain

• Are taking medications that can affect the liver or muscles

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ AST is an enzyme that helps detect liver and muscle injury.

✅ Elevated AST can result from liver disease, heart damage, or muscle injury.

✅ AST is often tested with ALT to provide a clearer picture of liver health.