What is an AST test. How is an AST blood test performed. When should you get an AST test. What do elevated AST levels indicate. How to interpret AST test results. What other tests are often done with AST. How to prepare for an AST blood test.

What is an AST Test and Why is it Important?

An AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test is a crucial diagnostic tool used to assess liver health and function. AST is an enzyme found predominantly in the liver, but also present in muscles and other organs. When cells containing AST are damaged, this enzyme is released into the bloodstream. By measuring AST levels in the blood, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into liver health and potential damage or disease.

The importance of AST testing lies in its ability to:

• Detect liver damage or disease
• Monitor liver function over time
• Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for liver conditions
• Screen for potential liver problems in high-risk individuals
• Provide a comprehensive picture of liver health when combined with other tests

When Should You Get an AST Blood Test?

An AST blood test may be recommended in various scenarios. Your healthcare provider might order this test as part of a routine health screening or if you’re experiencing symptoms that could indicate liver problems. Common situations warranting an AST test include:

• Regular health check-ups
• Symptoms of liver damage or disease
• Monitoring known liver conditions
• Evaluating the effects of medications on liver function
• Screening for liver issues in high-risk individuals

What symptoms might prompt an AST test? Key indicators of potential liver problems include:

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

The AST Blood Test Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the AST blood test procedure can help alleviate any concerns you might have. The process is straightforward and typically takes only a few minutes. Here’s what you can expect:

1. A healthcare professional will clean the area, usually inside your elbow or on the back of your hand.
2. A small needle will be inserted into a vein to draw blood.
3. You may feel a slight sting as the needle enters and exits.
4. A small amount of blood will be collected in a vial or test tube.
5. The needle is removed, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
6. A bandage may be placed over the site.

Are there any risks associated with an AST blood test? The procedure is generally very safe, with minimal risks. You might experience slight discomfort or bruising at the needle insertion site, but these symptoms usually resolve quickly.

Preparing for Your AST Test: Important Considerations

While an AST test itself doesn’t require special preparation, it’s often ordered alongside other blood tests that may have specific requirements. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Fasting may be necessary for up to 12 hours before the test, especially if other blood tests are being performed simultaneously.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as some can affect AST levels.
• Discuss any concerns or questions you have about the test with your healthcare provider.
• If you’re anxious about blood draws, let the healthcare professional know so they can help make you more comfortable.

How can you ensure the most accurate results? Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, particularly regarding fasting and medication use. Being well-hydrated (unless instructed otherwise) can make the blood draw easier.

Interpreting AST Test Results: What Do the Numbers Mean?

Understanding your AST test results is crucial for assessing your liver health. Normal AST levels typically range from 10 to 40 units per liter (U/L), although this can vary slightly between laboratories. Elevated AST levels may indicate liver damage or disease, but it’s important to note that AST levels can be affected by various factors.

What can cause elevated AST levels?

• Hepatitis (viral or alcoholic)
• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Mononucleosis
• Heart problems
• Pancreatitis
• Muscle damage or intense exercise
• Certain medications

It’s crucial to remember that a single elevated AST result doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious problem. Your healthcare provider will consider your AST levels in conjunction with other test results, your medical history, and any symptoms you’re experiencing to make an accurate diagnosis.

AST and ALT: A Dynamic Duo in Liver Function Testing

AST tests are often performed alongside ALT (alanine transaminase) tests. ALT is another enzyme found primarily in the liver. The combination of AST and ALT results provides a more comprehensive picture of liver health and can help pinpoint specific liver issues.

How do AST and ALT levels compare in liver function assessment?

• ALT is more specific to the liver than AST, which is also found in other tissues.
• The ratio of AST to ALT can provide clues about the underlying cause of liver damage.
• In alcoholic liver disease, AST levels are typically higher than ALT levels.
• In viral hepatitis, ALT levels are often higher than AST levels.

Your healthcare provider may also order additional liver function tests to gain a more complete understanding of your liver health. These may include:

• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
• Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)
• Bilirubin
• Albumin
• Prothrombin time

Beyond Liver Health: Other Uses for AST Testing

While AST testing is primarily associated with liver function, it has applications beyond hepatic health. Elevated AST levels can also indicate issues in other parts of the body, making it a versatile diagnostic tool.

What other conditions might be detected through AST testing?

• Heart attacks: AST levels can rise following cardiac muscle damage.
• Muscle disorders: Conditions affecting skeletal muscles can lead to increased AST levels.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas may cause elevated AST.
• Certain cancers: Some malignancies can result in higher AST levels.
• Hemolytic anemia: This condition can cause AST elevation due to red blood cell breakdown.

Given its diverse applications, AST testing plays a crucial role in comprehensive health assessments. It’s often included in routine blood panels to screen for various health issues, even when liver problems aren’t specifically suspected.

Lifestyle Factors and AST Levels: What You Need to Know

Various lifestyle factors can influence your AST levels, potentially affecting test results. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your health and prepare appropriately for AST testing.

Which lifestyle factors can impact AST levels?

• Alcohol consumption: Regular or heavy drinking can elevate AST levels.
• Exercise: Intense physical activity can temporarily increase AST.
• Diet: Certain foods and supplements may affect AST levels.
• Medications: Some drugs can impact liver enzyme levels, including AST.
• Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to fatty liver disease and elevated AST.

How can you maintain healthy AST levels? Adopting a liver-friendly lifestyle can help keep your AST levels within the normal range:

• Limit alcohol consumption
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly, but avoid extreme workouts before testing
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoid unnecessary medications and supplements
• Stay hydrated
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B

By understanding the factors that influence AST levels and taking steps to maintain liver health, you can play an active role in your overall well-being and ensure more accurate test results when needed.

The Role of AST Testing in Monitoring Chronic Liver Conditions

For individuals with chronic liver diseases, regular AST testing becomes an essential part of ongoing health management. These tests help healthcare providers track the progression of liver conditions and assess the effectiveness of treatments.

How often should AST levels be monitored in chronic liver conditions? The frequency of testing can vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. Common scenarios include:

• Chronic hepatitis: Every 3-6 months
• Cirrhosis: Every 3-6 months or more frequently if complications arise
• Alcoholic liver disease: Initially more frequent, then every 3-6 months if stable
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Every 6-12 months

What changes in AST levels might indicate? In chronic liver conditions, fluctuations in AST levels can provide valuable insights:

• Increasing levels may suggest disease progression or a flare-up
• Decreasing levels could indicate treatment effectiveness or disease remission
• Sudden, significant increases might signal acute complications requiring immediate attention

Regular AST monitoring, combined with other liver function tests and clinical assessments, allows healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans and intervene early if complications arise. This proactive approach can significantly improve outcomes for individuals living with chronic liver conditions.

AST Testing in Pediatric Patients: Special Considerations

AST testing in children and adolescents requires special attention due to differences in liver enzyme levels and potential causes of elevation compared to adults. Understanding these unique aspects is crucial for accurate interpretation of pediatric AST results.

How do AST levels differ in children? AST levels in children can vary based on age and development:

• Newborns and young infants may have higher AST levels than older children
• AST levels generally decrease and stabilize as children grow
• By adolescence, AST levels are typically similar to adult ranges

What are common causes of elevated AST in pediatric patients?

• Viral infections, including hepatitis and Epstein-Barr virus
• Genetic liver diseases
• Metabolic disorders
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Muscular dystrophies
• Certain medications

Healthcare providers must consider these factors when interpreting AST results in children. They often rely on age-specific reference ranges and may order additional tests to accurately diagnose the underlying cause of elevated AST levels in pediatric patients.

The Future of Liver Function Testing: Emerging Technologies and AST

As medical technology advances, new methods for assessing liver function are being developed. These innovations aim to provide more accurate, less invasive, and more comprehensive evaluations of liver health, potentially complementing or even replacing traditional blood tests like AST in some cases.

What emerging technologies are showing promise in liver function assessment?

• Transient elastography (FibroScan): Measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis and cirrhosis
• Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE): Uses MRI to create a map of liver stiffness
• Breath tests: Analyze volatile organic compounds in exhaled breath to detect liver disease
• Liquid biopsies: Examine circulating tumor DNA and other biomarkers in blood for liver cancer detection
• Artificial intelligence: Utilizes machine learning to interpret complex liver function data

While these technologies show great potential, traditional blood tests like AST remain essential for liver health assessment. The future of liver function testing will likely involve a combination of established methods and innovative techniques, providing a more comprehensive and personalized approach to liver health evaluation.

As research continues, staying informed about these advancements can help you engage in more meaningful discussions with your healthcare provider about the most appropriate liver function tests for your individual needs.

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

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.

When the liver goes wrong: a gastroenterologist named 4 common reasons why ALT and AST in the blood are elevated

• Health

However, the growth of these main “liver” markers in a blood test does not always indicate problems.

April 25, 2022

Source:

Getty Images

A biochemical blood test is considered one of the main ways to find out if the liver copes with the load of “wrong” nutrition, alcohol, and medication. This will be told by such indicators in the analysis as ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) – these liver enzymes are among the first to respond to malfunctions of the organ.

– If there is an increase in both ALT and AST, this means that the liver cells are destroyed and the enzymes from them enter the blood. (…) An increase in AST and ALT means that an inflammatory process is taking place in the liver and its cells are being destroyed. If the indicators are above the norm, you need to contact a gastroenterologist, – gastroenterologist Maria Lopatina wrote in her telegram channel, adding that the upper limits of the norm may differ in different laboratories and one must focus on those established where the analysis was taken.

The doctor named the 4 most common causes of increased liver values.

Chronic viral hepatitis

With an increase in ALT and AST in the blood, viral hepatitis B and C are always excluded first. This is very important, as they can be asymptomatic, while destroying the liver. Mandatory tests: HBsAg – hepatitis B and Anti-HCV – hepatitis C.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

When fatty degeneration of liver cells destroys them, ALT and AST increase in the blood and steatohepatitis develops.

Fatty liver disease is suspected if:

• Waist circumference ≥94/≥80 cm in men/women;

• Blood pressure 130/85 mmHg And more, or the person is taking antihypertensive drugs;

• Fasting glucose level of 5.6 mmol/l or more, or the person is taking hypoglycemic drugs;

• Serum triglycerides more than 1.7 mmol/l;

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) level less than 1.0/1.3 mmol/l in men/women.

Drug-induced liver injury

All drugs that we take by mouth pass through the liver. The more drugs we take, the more likely it is to be damaged. This group includes both herbal preparations and dietary supplements. Liver damage can occur immediately or after several weeks.

Alcohol

According to Russian clinical guidelines, a safe dose for the liver in women is 20 grams of ethanol per day, for men – 40 grams. Regular excess of this dose leads to the development of alcoholic hepatitis and an increase in ALT and AST.

Determining the ethanol content in 100 ml of a drink is very simple: the percentage of alcohol in the drink must be multiplied by 0.8. Thus, 100 ml of 40% vodka contains 40×0.8=32 grams of ethanol, and 100 ml of 12% wine contains 12×0.8=9.6 grams of ethanol.

The doctor explains that there are other reasons for the increase in ALT and AST in the blood, but these four are the most common.

Read also

When an increase in the indicator is not a cause for alarm

It happens that an increase in the level of “liver” indicators may not be associated with a problem in the work of our main “filter”. According to gastroenterologist Maria Lopatina, this may be the case if only the AST index is elevated.

– AST is found not only in the liver, but also in the heart, muscles, kidneys, brain and pancreas. If AST levels are elevated and ALT is normal, causes that are not related to damage to liver cells should be ruled out. For example, active training for all muscle groups, the doctor clarifies.

But if the liver values ​​are below normal in the blood test, in most cases this is not a cause for serious concern. According to the gastroenterologist, a decrease in their level can occur during pregnancy, starvation and a reduced content of vitamin B6.

What other indicators of a blood test can be used to understand that something is wrong with the liver, read HERE.

Signs of liver problems that can be seen in the mirror

According to doctors, the liver does not hurt in the usual sense of the word, especially at first – specific symptoms of the disease appear when things have gone too far. As the head of the MIBS outpatient department, gastroenterologist Iyri Alaya said, liver diseases are often accompanied by various digestive disorders:

• Increased gas formation;

• Feeling of fullness in the stomach;

• Rapid satiety after eating;

• Loss of appetite;

• Dryness and bitterness in the mouth;

• Attacks of nausea and vomiting;

• Constipation or diarrhoea.