What is an AST test. How is it used to assess liver function. When should you get an AST blood test. What do elevated AST levels indicate. How is an AST test performed. What factors can affect AST results. How does AST relate to other liver function tests.

Understanding AST: A Key Liver Enzyme

AST, or aspartate aminotransferase, is an enzyme predominantly found in the liver, but also present in muscles and other organs. When cells containing AST are damaged, this enzyme is released into the bloodstream. An AST blood test measures the amount of this enzyme in your blood, serving as a valuable indicator of liver health.

AST is also known by other names, including:

• SGOT test
• Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase test
• Aspartate transaminase test

The Purpose and Importance of AST Testing

Why is an AST test conducted? An AST blood test is primarily used to:

1. Assess liver health as part of routine blood screening
2. Diagnose liver damage or disease
3. Monitor existing liver conditions
4. Evaluate other health issues that may affect liver function

Is an AST test always necessary? Not everyone needs an AST test regularly. However, your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you:

• Are experiencing symptoms of liver damage
• Have risk factors for liver disease
• Are undergoing routine health screenings

Recognizing Symptoms That May Warrant an AST Test

When should you consider getting an AST blood test? Your healthcare provider might recommend this test if you exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Persistent fatigue
• Weakness
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Abdominal swelling or pain
• Swelling in ankles and legs
• Dark urine or light-colored stool
• Frequent itching

Do you need an AST test even without symptoms? In some cases, yes. Your healthcare provider may order an AST test if you have risk factors for liver disease, such as:

• Family history of liver disease
• Alcohol use disorder
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Use of certain medications that can affect liver function
• History of hepatitis or exposure to hepatitis

The AST Blood Test Procedure: What to Expect

How is an AST blood test performed? The process is straightforward and typically involves the following steps:

1. A healthcare professional will use a small needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm.
2. A small amount of blood is collected into a test tube or vial.
3. You may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted and removed.
4. The entire process usually takes less than five minutes.

Is any special preparation required for an AST test? Generally, no specific preparations are needed for an AST blood test. However, since it’s often ordered alongside other blood tests, you may need to fast for up to 12 hours before the test. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding test preparation.

Interpreting AST Test Results: What Do They Mean?

What can AST levels reveal about your health? High levels of AST in the blood may indicate:

• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Mononucleosis
• Other liver diseases
• Heart problems
• Pancreatitis

Are abnormal AST results always cause for concern? Not necessarily. Many factors can influence AST levels, including:

• Age
• Sex
• Diet
• Certain medications

It’s crucial to discuss your results with your healthcare provider for a comprehensive interpretation.

AST and Other Liver Function Tests: A Comprehensive Approach

Is AST the only test used to assess liver function? No, AST is often part of a broader panel of liver function tests. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests, such as:

• ALT (alanine transaminase) test
• ALP (alkaline phosphatase) test
• Bilirubin test
• Albumin test
• Prothrombin time test

Why are multiple tests often ordered together? Combining these tests provides a more comprehensive picture of liver health and function, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of liver conditions.

Factors Influencing AST Levels: Beyond Liver Health

Can factors other than liver disease affect AST levels? Yes, several conditions and factors can influence AST results:

• Muscle damage or intense exercise
• Heart conditions
• Certain medications
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Alcohol consumption

How do these factors impact AST interpretation? Understanding these influencing factors helps healthcare providers contextualize AST results and determine if additional testing or investigation is necessary.

AST to ALT Ratio: A Valuable Diagnostic Tool

What is the AST to ALT ratio? This ratio compares the levels of AST to ALT in the blood and can provide additional insights into liver health.

How is the AST to ALT ratio used? The ratio can help differentiate between various liver conditions:

• A ratio greater than 2:1 may indicate alcoholic liver disease
• A ratio less than 1:1 is more common in viral hepatitis
• A ratio close to 1:1 may suggest non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Managing Elevated AST Levels: Lifestyle and Treatment Options

What steps can be taken to address high AST levels? Depending on the underlying cause, management strategies may include:

• Dietary changes
• Weight loss (if overweight or obese)
• Alcohol cessation or reduction
• Treatment of underlying liver conditions
• Medication adjustments (under medical supervision)
• Regular exercise

Is lifestyle modification always sufficient to normalize AST levels? In some cases, yes. However, for certain liver conditions, medical treatment may be necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

The Role of Nutrition in Liver Health and AST Levels

How does diet impact liver function and AST levels? A balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can support liver health:

• Antioxidants (found in fruits and vegetables)
• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts)
• Fiber (found in whole grains, legumes, and vegetables)
• Lean proteins

Are there specific foods to avoid for liver health? Limiting or avoiding the following can benefit liver function:

• Processed foods high in added sugars and unhealthy fats
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• High-sodium foods
• Red and processed meats

AST Testing Frequency: How Often Should You Get Checked?

How frequently should AST levels be monitored? The frequency of AST testing depends on individual circumstances:

• For routine health screenings: typically once a year or as recommended by your healthcare provider
• For monitoring known liver conditions: frequency may vary from every few weeks to every few months
• For assessing treatment effectiveness: as determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific condition and treatment plan

Can regular AST testing prevent liver disease? While testing itself doesn’t prevent disease, regular monitoring can help detect liver issues early, allowing for timely intervention and potentially preventing more serious complications.

AST Testing in Special Populations

Are there specific considerations for AST testing in certain groups? Yes, some populations may require more frequent or specialized AST testing:

• Pregnant women: to monitor liver function during pregnancy
• Individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or obesity
• People taking medications known to affect liver function
• Those with a family history of liver disease
• Individuals with a history of alcohol abuse

Emerging Research and Future Directions in AST Testing

What advancements are being made in liver function testing? Current research is exploring several areas:

• Non-invasive imaging techniques to assess liver health
• Genetic markers for liver disease susceptibility
• Novel biomarkers for more specific liver damage detection
• Artificial intelligence applications in interpreting liver function test results

How might these advancements impact future AST testing? These developments could lead to more accurate, personalized, and comprehensive liver health assessments, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures like liver biopsies.

The Global Impact of Liver Disease and AST Testing

What is the worldwide prevalence of liver disease? Liver diseases affect millions globally, with variations in prevalence and types across different regions:

• Hepatitis B and C are more common in certain parts of Asia and Africa
• Alcoholic liver disease is prevalent in many Western countries
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is increasing worldwide, particularly in countries with rising obesity rates

How does AST testing contribute to global health efforts? Widespread availability of AST testing, along with other liver function tests, plays a crucial role in:

• Early detection of liver diseases
• Monitoring treatment effectiveness
• Conducting epidemiological studies
• Informing public health policies and interventions

By understanding the significance of AST testing and its role in assessing liver health, individuals can take proactive steps towards maintaining their overall well-being. Regular check-ups, lifestyle modifications, and open communication with healthcare providers are key components in managing liver health effectively. As research continues to advance our understanding of liver function and disease, AST testing remains a valuable tool in the broader landscape of preventive healthcare and disease management.

AST Test: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What is an AST Test?

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme that is found mostly in the liver, but it’s also in muscles and other organs in your body. When cells that contain AST are damaged, they release the AST into your blood. An AST blood test measures the amount of AST in your blood. The test is commonly used to help diagnose liver damage or disease.

Other names: SGOT test, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase test; aspartate transaminase test

What is it used for?

An AST blood test is often part of a routine blood screening to check the health of your liver. The test may help diagnose or monitor liver problems. It may also help diagnose other health conditions.

Why do I need an AST blood test?

You may get an AST blood test as part of your routine checkup or if you have symptoms of liver damage. These may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Lack of appetite
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and eyes to turn yellow
• Swelling and/or pain in your abdomen (belly)
• Swelling in your ankles and legs
• Dark-colored urine (pee) and/or light-colored stool (poop)
• Frequent itching

Even if you don’t have symptoms, your health care provider may order an AST blood test if you’re more likely to develop liver disease because of:

• A family history of liver disease
• Alcohol use disorder
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Taking certain medicines that can cause liver damage
• Hepatitis or exposure to hepatitis

What happens during an AST blood test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You don’t need any special preparations for an AST blood test. But an AST test is usually ordered with other blood tests. You usually need to fast (not eat or drink) for up to 12 hours before these tests. Your provider will let you know if there are any special instructions to follow.

Are there any risks to the test?

There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may have slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

What do the results mean?

High levels of AST in the blood may be a sign of hepatitis, cirrhosis, mononucleosis, or other liver diseases. High AST levels may also be a sign of heart problems or pancreatitis.

If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn’t always mean that you have a medical condition that needs treatment. Many things can affect your results, such as certain medicines and your age, sex, and diet. To learn what your results mean, talk with your provider.

Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

Is there anything else I need to know about an AST blood test?

Your health care provider may order an ALT blood test with your AST blood test. ALT stands for alanine transaminase, which is another type of liver enzyme. If you have high levels of AST and/or ALT, it may mean that you have some type of liver damage.

You may also have an AST test as part of a group of liver function tests that measure ALT, and other enzymes, proteins, and substances in the liver.

References

1. American Liver Foundation. [Internet]. New York: American Liver Foundation; c2017. Diagnosing Liver Disease – Liver Biopsy and Liver Function Tests; [updated 2020 Feb 17; cited 2022 Feb 14]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://liverfoundation. org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diagnosing-liver-disease/
2. Hinkle J, Cheever K. Brunner & Suddarth’s Handbook of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. 2nd Ed, Kindle. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; c2014. Aspartate Aminotransferase; p. 68–69.
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests; [cited 2022 Feb 14]; [about 15 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
4. Testing.com [Internet]. Seattle (WA).: OneCare Media; c2022. Aspartate Aminotransferase: The Test; [modified 2021 Nov 9; cited 2022 Feb 14; [about 14 screens]. Available from: https://www.testing.com/test/aspartate-aminotransferase-ast/
5. University of Rochester Medical Center [Internet]. Rochester (NY): University of Rochester Medical Center; c2017. Health Encyclopedia: Aspartate Transaminase; [cited 2017 Mar 13]; [about 2 screens]. Available from: https://www. urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=167&contentid=aspartate_transaminase

AST (SGOT): Liver Function Test

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AST (SGOT): Liver Function Test

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AST (SGOT): Liver Function Test

Hepatitis C

AST, or aspartate aminotransferase, is one of the two liver enzymes. It is also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, or SGOT. AST is a protein made by liver cells. When liver cells are damaged, AST leaks out into the bloodstream and the level of AST in the blood becomes elevated. AST is different from ALT because AST is found in parts of the body other than the liver—including the heart, kidneys, muscles, and brain. When cells in any of those parts of the body are damaged, AST can be elevated.

Explanation of test results:

A high AST level often means there is some liver damage, but it is not necessarily caused by hepatitis C. A high AST with a normal ALT may mean that the AST is coming from a different part of the body. It is important to realize that the AST level in most patients with hepatitis C goes up and down. The exact AST level does not tell you how much liver damage there is, or whether the liver is getting better or worse, and small changes should be expected. However, for patients receiving treatment for hepatitis C, it is helpful to see if the AST level goes down.

Other things to know:

• The AST level is not as helpful as the ALT level for checking the liver.
• Many patients with hepatitis C will have a normal AST level.
• Patients can have very severe liver disease or cirrhosis and still have a normal AST level.

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The norm of ALT and AST in the blood test in women: what you need to know

Contents

• 1 The norm of ALT and AST in the blood of women: what indicators are the norm and what do the deviations say?
  • 1.1 Blood test norm for women: ALT and AST
  • 1.2 What is a blood test?
  • 1.3 What do ALT and AST mean?
  • 1.4 Why is it important to know the norms of ALT and AST?
  • 1.5 How are ALT and AST analyzed?
  • 1.6 How do I prepare for an ALT and AST test?
  • 1.7 Norm of ALT and AST in women: age characteristics
  • 1.8 What diseases can affect the level of ALT and AST in the blood of women?
  • 1. 9 What should I do if my ALT and AST levels are elevated?
  • 1.10 What factors can increase blood levels of ALT and AST?
  • 1.11 Can I decode the results of ALT and AST analysis myself?
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What are ALT and AST in a blood test?
      • 1.13.0.2 What causes ALT and AST levels to rise?
      • 1.13.0.3 What are the norms for ALT and AST in women?
      • 1.13.0.4 Can elevated levels of ALT and AST in women be associated with medication?
      • 1.13.0.5 Can elevated levels of ALT and AST in women indicate cancer?
      • 1.13.0.6 What should be done if the level of ALT and AST in the blood of a woman is elevated?

Find out what the norm of alt and ast means in a blood test for women. Which values ​​are normal, and which may indicate diseases. The importance of timely and correct decoding of a blood test for maintaining health.

The results of a biochemical blood test are one of the key indicators of the health of the body. It is especially important to correctly interpret the level of AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase), as they are a reflection of the work of the liver. Blood tests for AST and ALT are often prescribed in combination with other indicators to assess liver function, determine the nature of the disease and monitor the progress of treatment.

For women, normal levels of AST and ALT may differ slightly from those for men, in addition, during pregnancy and some other conditions, there may be significant changes in enzyme levels. Therefore, it is important to know the features of the interpretation of the results and the possible causes of deviations from the norm.

In this article we will tell you what are the norms of the levels of AST and ALT in the blood in women, what means their increase or decrease, as well as what factors can affect the result of the tests. If you find deviations from the norm, do not panic, perhaps this is a temporary phenomenon, but additional consultation with a doctor and diagnosis of the condition of the liver is necessary.

Blood test norm for women: ALT and AST

ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) are enzymes that are found in the cells of the liver, heart, muscles and other tissues of the body. Their level in the blood can be increased in diseases of these organs, as well as in other pathologies.

The norm of AST in women is from 7 to 31 units per liter of blood. An increase in AST levels can be associated with diseases of the liver, cardiovascular system, as well as muscle injuries.

It is important to remember that ALT and AST limits may differ depending on the laboratory where the blood was tested. Therefore, the doctor should interpret the results, taking into account all the factors affecting the level of these enzymes.

What is a blood test?

A blood test is a laboratory study of a biological fluid that circulates through a person’s blood vessels. This analysis is one of the most common methods for diagnosing many diseases, as well as monitoring the state of the body, both in case of deterioration and improvement of its health.

A blood test goes through many stages, from taking blood to interpreting the results. When conducting an analysis, various factors should be taken into account, such as age, gender, physical condition, the presence of chronic diseases and the use of drugs.

Various blood tests, such as hemoglobin, leukocytes, platelets, ALT, AST and many others, may indicate various diseases or abnormalities in the body.

What do ALT and AST mean?

ALT and AST are enzymes found in liver cells. ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) can be used as indicators of liver damage. These enzymes are released from liver cells into the bloodstream when an organ is damaged or diseased, and their levels can indicate how severe the damage is.

High levels of ALT and AST in the blood of women may indicate the presence of liver disease or other diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis or liver tumors. However, elevated levels of ALT and AST may also be indicative of other non-liver related conditions, such as heart failure.

Why is it important to know the norms of ALT and AST?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are enzymes found in liver and heart cells. If their level in the blood is elevated, this may indicate damage to the cells of these organs.

Measurement of ALT and AST levels in the blood is an important blood test that provides information about the state of the liver and heart in women. Elevated levels of ALT and AST may indicate various diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, heart failure, and others.

ALT and AST values ​​are indicative and may vary depending on the woman’s age, sex and lifestyle. Therefore, it is important to know the norm of ALT and AST for women in order to make it easier to determine the presence of any diseases.

If ALT and AST are elevated, see a doctor who can diagnose and suggest treatment. Treatment may be aimed at eliminating the causes of increased enzyme levels, as well as restoring liver and heart function.

How is ALT and AST analyzed?

The ALT and AST test is a common blood test. Usually, blood is taken from a vein in the elbow for analysis. Before passing the analysis, you must follow the rules of preparation.

After the blood has been collected, it is sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for ALT and AST levels. The results of the analysis are usually ready in a few days.

When analyzing ALT and AST, be aware that the results may vary depending on age, sex, physical activity and the use of certain medications. Therefore, before the analysis, it is necessary to consult a doctor and follow the recommendations for preparation.

How to prepare for ALT and AST analysis?

ALT and AST analysis requires some preparation in order for the results to be accurate and reliable. Here are some tips to help you properly prepare for this analysis.

• Refusal of food 8-12 hours before the test. It is best to take the test in the morning on an empty stomach so as not to affect the results. This means that 8-12 hours before blood collection, you need to refuse food.
• Medication withdrawal. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any medications. Some medicines may interfere with the results of the test. If your doctor thinks you need to stop taking your medication, it’s best to follow their advice.
• Refusal of alcohol one day before the analysis. Alcohol can interfere with test results, so alcohol should be avoided the day before the test.
• Maintaining rest and avoiding exercise. Physical activity can also affect the results of the test, so the day before it is taken, physical activity should be avoided and rest should be observed.
• Blood collection compliance. To obtain accurate and reliable results, you must follow the rules for collecting blood. The blood collection process itself should not take more than 5-7 minutes and take place in a sterile environment.

By following these guidelines, you can be confident that your ALT and AST results will be reliable and will help your doctor make the right diagnosis and treatment.

The norm of ALT and AST in women: age characteristics

ALT and AST are important indicators of the functional state of the liver, determined in the blood.

It is possible to establish the norm of ALT and AST in the blood of women only taking into account age characteristics.

So, for example, in women under the age of 50, the ALT norm is up to 31 units per liter of blood, and in women over 50 years old – up to 35 units.

The norm of AST for women under the age of 50 is up to 31 units per liter of blood, after 50 years – up to 35 units.

It should also be noted that during pregnancy, women may experience changes in ALT and AST levels, which usually return to normal after childbirth.

In any case, if you find abnormalities in ALT and AST, you should contact a specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.

What diseases can affect the blood levels of ALT and AST in women?

Blood levels of ALT and AST in women can increase as a result of various diseases. For example, hepatitis is one of the main causes of elevated levels of ALT and AST. This is due to the fact that these enzymes are found in high concentration in the liver, and in hepatitis, the liver tissue can be damaged, which leads to the release of large amounts of ALT and AST into the blood.

In addition, diseases that affect the biliary tract, such as gallstones and cholangitis, can also increase ALT and AST levels. The levels of these enzymes may also increase in women with cardiovascular disease such as myocardial infarction or arrhythmia.

1. Hepatitis;
2. Cirrhosis of the liver;
3. Oncological diseases;
4. Muscular diseases;
5. Gallstone disease;
6. Cholangitis;
7. Cardiovascular diseases;

What if ALT and AST levels are high?

If ALT and AST levels are elevated in a woman’s blood test, a doctor should be consulted for diagnosis and possible causes. Perhaps an increase in the level of these indicators may indicate diseases of the liver or other organs.

Your doctor may order additional tests, such as an ultrasound of the liver, a CT scan, or a liver biopsy, for diagnosis. In addition, it is necessary to analyze urine and blood for the presence of infections, viruses and other pathological processes.

If the reason for the increase in ALT and AST levels is related to the disease, it is necessary to undergo treatment prescribed by a doctor. This may include medication, diet, and other measures, depending on the specific disease and its stage.

In addition, women who have high ALT and AST levels should lead a healthy lifestyle, give up addictions and watch their diet. It is recommended to increase the amount of vegetables and fruits consumed, reduce the intake of fatty and fried foods, and also pay attention to the quantitative and qualitative composition of food.

• see a doctor for diagnosis;
• complete the required tests;
• get treated by a doctor;
• lead a healthy lifestyle and watch your diet.

What factors can increase blood levels of ALT and AST?

Preparations. In addition to drugs that fight liver disease, many drugs can increase blood levels of ALT and AST, such as antiviral drugs, anabolic steroids, anticancer drugs, and others.

Alcohol. Regular alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage and possible increase in blood levels of ALT and AST.

Wrong diet. Excessive consumption of fatty and fried foods can lead to impaired liver function and increased levels of ALT and AST in the blood.

Inflammatory diseases of the liver. Viral, alcoholic or autoimmune hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, fatty degeneration cause liver inflammation, which increases the level of ALT and AST in the blood.

Examples of drugs that can increase ALT and AST in the blood Drug Group

Can I decode the results of ALT and AST analysis myself?

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) are enzymes that are found in liver cells without penetrating into the blood. They are released into the blood only under pathological conditions of the organ. Changes in the levels of these enzymes indicate damage to liver and/or heart cells.

Decoding of ALT and AST results may only be performed by qualified medical personnel after examining the patient and performing other investigations.

Although regular analysis of ALT and AST levels helps to identify possible diseases in the very early stages, you should not try to diagnose yourself. The best solution is to consult with your doctor.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is ALT and AST in a blood test?

ALT and AST are enzymes found in the cells of the liver, heart, muscles and other organs. If their blood levels are elevated, this may indicate damage to the cells of these organs.

What causes ALT and AST levels to rise?

Elevated levels of ALT and AST in the blood may be associated with diseases of the liver (hepatitis, cirrhosis), cardiovascular system (heart attack, cardiomyopathy), muscles (muscular dystrophy) and other organs. It can also be caused by taking certain medications, alcohol, or toxic substances.

What are the norms for ALT and AST in women?

Guideline values ​​for ALT and AST may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the age of the woman. Typically, the ALT level should not exceed 31 U/L, and the AST level should not exceed 30 U/L.

Can high levels of ALT and AST in women be related to medication?

Yes, some medicines can increase blood levels of ALT and AST, such as antibiotics, antiparkinsonian drugs, some antiviral drugs. Therefore, if you are taking any medications, tell your doctor before taking a blood test.

Can elevated levels of ALT and AST in women indicate cancer?

No, elevated levels of ALT and AST are not specific to cancer and are not the main sign of cancer.

What should be done if the level of ALT and AST in the blood of a woman is elevated?

The first step is to see a doctor who will conduct additional tests and determine the cause of the increased values. Depending on the diagnosis, appropriate treatments and recommendations for lifestyle and diet changes will be prescribed.

ALT and AST what is it?

ALT ( alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) are aminotransferase enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism. They are also called liver enzymes. They are found mainly in the cells of the liver and in other organs: pancreas, heart, kidneys, muscle tissue. A small amount of ALT and AST may appear in the blood due to physiological processes. However, in case of liver diseases (infectious or toxic hepatitis, tumor), damage to the liver cells occurs, the permeability of cell membranes is impaired and a large amount of ALT and AST enzymes are released into the blood – as a result, a cytolytic syndrome develops.

ALT and AST transaminases are specific markers of liver disease. Indications for their appointment may be the following:

• Presence of symptoms: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin and sclera, lethargy.
• laboratory diagnostics of liver diseases: viral hepatitis A, B, C, toxic hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (steatohepatitis), alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis of the liver.
• Monitoring the dynamics of therapy for liver diseases.

Norms for the content of liver enzymes in the blood:

Age	Men	Women	Units
0-1 years	13-45		U/ml
1-60 years old	10-40	7.0-35.0
60-90 years old	13.0-40.0	10.0-28.0
Over 90 years old	6. 0-38	5.0-24.0

Reasons for increasing ALT, AST (hepatic and extrahepatic)

The level of ALT in acute viral or drug-induced hepatitis can rise 50 times or more. With steatohepatitis and alcoholic liver disease, the increase in ALT is moderate – no more than 5 times.