What is an AST blood test. How is an AST test performed. Why are AST tests ordered. What do elevated AST levels indicate. How to prepare for an AST test. When to expect AST test results. Are there risks associated with AST testing.

What is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)?

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also known as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme found primarily in liver and heart cells, with lower concentrations in kidney and muscle tissue. In healthy individuals, AST levels in the blood are typically low. However, when liver or muscle cells are damaged, AST is released into the bloodstream, causing elevated levels that can be detected through blood testing.

AST plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism and energy production within cells. As an enzyme, it catalyzes the reversible transfer of an amino group between aspartate and glutamate, which is an essential step in the citric acid cycle. This process is vital for cellular energy production and protein synthesis.

The Purpose and Importance of AST Blood Tests

AST blood tests are primarily used to assess liver function and detect potential liver damage. These tests are particularly useful in diagnosing and monitoring various liver conditions, including:

• Hepatitis (viral, alcoholic, or drug-induced)
• Cirrhosis
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Drug-induced liver injury
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

Additionally, AST tests can help evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for liver disorders and monitor potential side effects of medications known to affect liver function.

When are AST Tests Ordered?

Healthcare providers may order AST tests in various scenarios, including:

1. When a patient exhibits signs of liver problems (e.g., jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain)
2. As part of routine health screenings
3. To monitor patients taking medications that could potentially affect liver function
4. In the follow-up care of patients with known liver conditions
5. When evaluating unexplained symptoms that might be related to liver dysfunction

The AST Testing Procedure: What to Expect

An AST test involves a simple blood draw, typically from a vein in the arm. The procedure is generally quick and minimally invasive. Here’s what patients can expect during the test:

1. A healthcare professional will clean the skin at the injection site.
2. An elastic band may be placed around the upper arm to make the vein more prominent.
3. A needle will be inserted into the vein to collect the blood sample.
4. The blood will be drawn into a vial or syringe.
5. The elastic band and needle will be removed, and pressure will be applied to stop any bleeding.
6. A small bandage may be placed over the injection site.

For infants, a heel stick method may be used instead, where a small lancet is used to prick the heel and collect a blood sample.

Preparing for an AST Test

To ensure accurate results, patients may be asked to follow certain guidelines before the test:

• Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the test (water is usually permitted)
• Informing the healthcare provider about all current medications, as some may affect test results
• Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to facilitate easy access to the arm
• Bringing a comfort item (e.g., toy or book) for children to help them relax during the procedure

Interpreting AST Test Results: What Do They Mean?

AST test results are typically reported in units per liter (U/L) of blood. Normal ranges can vary slightly between laboratories, but generally, AST levels between 10 and 40 U/L are considered normal for adults. However, it’s important to note that “normal” values may differ based on age, sex, and individual health factors.

Elevated AST Levels: Potential Causes and Implications

Elevated AST levels can indicate various conditions affecting the liver or other organs. Some common causes of increased AST include:

• Acute or chronic hepatitis
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Cirrhosis
• Muscle damage or injury
• Heart attack or heart muscle damage
• Certain medications
• Mononucleosis
• Pancreatitis

It’s crucial to understand that AST levels alone do not provide a definitive diagnosis. Healthcare providers typically consider AST results in conjunction with other liver enzyme tests, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and additional diagnostic procedures to determine the underlying cause of elevated levels.

AST/ALT Ratio: A Valuable Diagnostic Tool

The ratio of AST to ALT can provide valuable insights into the nature and severity of liver damage. This ratio is particularly useful in differentiating between alcoholic liver disease and other forms of liver injury.

• AST/ALT ratio < 1: Suggests non-alcoholic liver disease
• AST/ALT ratio > 2: Often indicates alcoholic liver disease
• AST/ALT ratio between 1 and 2: May indicate cirrhosis or severe viral hepatitis

However, it’s important to note that these ratios are not definitive and should be interpreted in the context of a patient’s overall clinical picture and other diagnostic tests.

Potential Risks and Considerations of AST Testing

While AST blood tests are generally safe and low-risk procedures, there are some minor considerations and potential side effects:

• Slight pain or discomfort at the injection site
• Minimal bruising or soreness that typically resolves within a few days
• Rare instances of excessive bleeding, particularly in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications
• Potential lightheadedness or fainting, especially in individuals with a fear of needles

Healthcare providers should be informed of any pre-existing conditions or medications that might increase the risk of complications during the blood draw.

Beyond Liver Function: Other Applications of AST Testing

While AST tests are primarily associated with liver function assessment, they have other important applications in clinical practice:

Cardiac Health Evaluation

Elevated AST levels can sometimes indicate heart muscle damage, such as in cases of myocardial infarction (heart attack). In these situations, AST is often measured alongside other cardiac markers like troponin and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) to assess the extent of heart muscle injury.

Muscle Disorders

AST is also present in muscle tissue, and elevated levels may indicate muscle damage or disorders such as muscular dystrophy, rhabdomyolysis, or polymyositis. In these cases, AST is often measured in conjunction with other muscle enzymes like creatine kinase (CK) to provide a comprehensive assessment of muscle health.

Monitoring Drug-Induced Liver Injury

AST tests play a crucial role in monitoring patients taking medications known to have potential hepatotoxic effects. Regular AST testing can help detect early signs of drug-induced liver injury, allowing for timely intervention and adjustment of treatment plans.

The Future of Liver Function Testing: Emerging Technologies and Approaches

While AST testing remains a cornerstone of liver function assessment, ongoing research is exploring new technologies and approaches to enhance diagnostic accuracy and provide more comprehensive liver health evaluations:

Non-Invasive Imaging Techniques

Advanced imaging technologies, such as elastography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are being developed to assess liver fibrosis and steatosis non-invasively. These techniques may complement traditional blood tests like AST in providing a more complete picture of liver health.

Biomarker Panels

Researchers are investigating combinations of biomarkers, including AST and other liver enzymes, to create more sensitive and specific diagnostic panels for various liver conditions. These panels aim to improve early detection and differentiation of liver diseases.

Genetic Testing

Advances in genetic testing are revealing inherited factors that may influence liver enzyme levels and susceptibility to certain liver diseases. Integrating genetic information with traditional liver function tests may lead to more personalized approaches to liver health assessment and management.

As these technologies continue to evolve, it’s likely that AST testing will remain an important component of liver function assessment, complemented by these newer diagnostic tools to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of liver health.

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST, or SGOT)

What Is a Blood Test?

A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken from the body to be tested in a lab. Doctors order blood tests to check things such as the levels of glucose, hemoglobin, or white blood cells. This can help them detect problems like a disease or medical condition. Sometimes, blood tests can help them see how well an organ (such as the liver or kidneys) is working.

What Is an AST Test?

An AST test measures the level of aspartate aminotransferase, also called AST or SGOT. AST is one of the enzymes that help the liver convert food into energy. High levels of these enzymes can be a sign that the liver is injured or irritated, and the enzymes are leaking out of the liver cells.

Why Are AST Tests Done?

An AST test may be done if a child has signs of a possible liver problem, such as jaundice (yellowish skin or eyes), dark urine, nausea, vomiting, or belly pain. It also might be done if a child is on medicine that makes high liver enzyme levels more likely.

How Should We Prepare for an AST Test?

Your child may be asked to stop eating and drinking for 8 to 12 hours before the AST test. Tell your doctor about any medicines your child takes because some drugs might affect the test results.

Wearing a T-shirt or short-sleeved shirt for the test can make things easier for your child, and you also can bring along a toy or book as a distraction.

How Is an AST Test Done?

Most blood tests take a small amount of blood from a vein. To do that, a health professional will:

• clean the skin
• put an elastic band (tourniquet) above the area to get the veins to swell with blood
• insert a needle into a vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand)
• pull the blood sample into a vial or syringe
• take off the elastic band and remove the needle from the vein

In babies, blood draws are sometimes done as a “heel stick collection.” After cleaning the area, the health professional will prick your baby’s heel with a tiny needle (or lancet) to collect a small sample of blood.

Collecting a sample of blood is only temporarily uncomfortable and can feel like a quick pinprick.

Can I Stay With My Child During an AST Test?

Parents usually can stay with their child during a blood test. Encourage your child to relax and stay still because tensing muscles can make it harder to draw blood. Your child might want to look away when the needle is inserted and the blood is collected. Help your child to relax by taking slow deep breaths or singing a favorite song.

How Long Does an AST Test Take?

Most blood tests take just a few minutes. Occasionally, it can be hard to find a vein, so the health professional may need to try more than once.

What Happens After an AST Test?

The health professional will remove the elastic band and the needle and cover the area with cotton or a bandage to stop the bleeding. Afterward, there may be some mild bruising, which should go away in a few days.

When Are AST Test Results Ready?

Blood samples are processed by a machine, and it may take a few hours to a day for the results to be available. If the test results show signs of a problem, the doctor might order other tests to figure out what the problem is and how to treat it.

Are There Any Risks From AST Tests?

An AST test is a safe procedure with minimal risks. Some kids might feel faint or lightheaded from the test. A few kids and teens have a strong fear of needles. If your child is anxious, talk with the doctor before the test about ways to make the procedure easier.

A small bruise or mild soreness around the blood test site is common and can last for a few days. Get medical care for your child if the discomfort gets worse or lasts longer.

If you have questions about the AST test, speak with your doctor or the health professional doing the blood draw.

SGOT Test/ASG Test – About, Preparation, Test Results & More

clinical definition of sgot / ast (aspartate aminotransferase )

Aspartate Aminotransferase also is known as AST is an enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells and to a lesser extent in the kidneys and muscles. In healthy individuals, levels of AST in the blood are low. When the liver or muscle cells are injured, AST is released into the blood. AST test detects liver damage. Another name for aminotransferase is transaminase. Aspartate Aminotransferase test is most useful in detecting liver damage due to hepatitis, drugs toxic to the liver, cirrhosis, and alcoholism.

AST is also sometimes known as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase abbreviated as SGOT. The enzyme levels are also elevated when there is underlying liver damage. Also, there are certain medications that can cause a rise in the enzyme levels. Understanding what is SGOT test becomes easier when you know the clinical definition.

Is there any difference between SGOT and AST?

Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase or commonly known as SGOT is an enzyme that is present in liver and heart cells. If there is an underlying liver or heart damage, the enzymes are released into the blood. Sometimes SGOT also finds a reference as AST, but the question arises what is SGOT and what is AST? There is no practical difference between the two as SGOT is also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST).

what is sgot / ast (aspartate aminotransferase ) test?

Abnormal AST SGOT levels generally signify improper liver functions. The SGOT test is an important diagnostic tool used in diagnosing liver damage. The test can sometimes also be used to monitor the treatment progress for an underlying liver disease. These tests are carried out to any hospitals and diagnostic centres and hospitals. The SGOT test cost can vary depending upon where these tests are conducted.

when do you expect results?

24 to 36 Hours

why get tested?

Aspartate Aminotransferase test determines any liver damage. It is often carried out in conjunction with another liver enzyme, alanine transferase (ALT), or as a part of a liver panel to diagnose any possible liver disorders.

reason to take sgot / ast (aspartate aminotransferase ) test

• Symptoms of a liver disorder that are commonly observed are

• Loss of appetite, Nausea, Vomiting 

• Weakness, Fatigue

• Abdominal swelling and/or pain

• Jaundice

• Dark urine, light coloured stoolItching (pruritus)

• Individuals vulnerable to liver diseases include

• People who might have been exposed to hepatitis viruses

• People who consume high levels of alcohol

• People with a family history of liver disease 

• People who consume drugs that can possibly damage the liver

• People who are overweight and/or have diabetes

preparations needed for sgot / ast (aspartate aminotransferase ) test

• No Fasting Required.

• No other special preparations required

sample required for sgot / ast (aspartate aminotransferase ) test?

Specimen type: Serum

(Blood Sample), Specimen collection procedure: Venipuncture

(Collection of blood from a vein, usually from the arm)

how is sgot / ast test done?

It is a simple blood test that is carried by drawing the blood sample from the vein on your arm. The collected blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis of the SGOT levels.

how do you understand sgot / ast test result?

To understand the test report, it is imperative that you know the reference range of the enzyme. The AST normal range for men is 10 to 40 units/L, and for women is 9 to 32 units/L. If the test results are higher than the SGOT normal range, it indicates possible damage to the organ that contains the enzyme.

what other tests might i have along with sgot / ast test?

The doctor might prescribe other liver function tests along with this test. List of these tests include

1. Alanine transaminase (ALT) test

2. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) test

3. Albumin test: It provides conclusive evidence of how well the liver is making the albumin protein.

4. Bilirubin test: When the liver is damaged it does not process bilirubin leading to high levels in the blood.

5. Glucose test: Unusually low glucose levels are detected if a liver does not function accurately.

6. Platelet Count: Low platelet count can be a warning of an underlying liver disease.

does sgot / ast test pose any risk?

The SGOT blood test does not pose any significant risks to the patient. Some of the rare side effects of the test include bruising, infection or pain at the injection site. Also a few might experience fainting or dizzy spells.

what might affect my test results?

If you have consumed any over the counter medications like ibuprofen before the test or a few days before the test, results could be compromised. It is important that your doctor has prior knowledge about this.

what are the symptoms associated with high levels of sgot and sgpt?

To have an in-depth understanding of the symptoms, it is important to know what is SGOT and SGPT is and what is their function. Both SGPT and SGOT are sensitive indicators of liver damage and are collectively used as liver function tests. Some of the high SGOT and SGPT levels symptoms include:

1. Fatigue

2. Weakness

3. Shortness of Breath

4. Jaundice

5. Nausea and Vomiting

6. Excessive bleeding or bruising

Strict diet modifications are needed for SGOT and SGPT high treatment along with the prescribed medications. A plant-based and nutrient-rich diet help in treating the highs as they help in regulating the liver functions and flushing out toxins. Also, foods that are rich in vitamin D like fish, cod liver oil, tofu and soya milk etc. help in keeping liver problems at bay thereby controlling the SGPT and SGOT levels. It is advisable to restrict your self from high-fat foods as it will be difficult for the liver to process them. High salt intake should be avoided as they cause fluid retention in the body and also liver swelling. Along with diet, certain lifestyle modifications are also equally important for SGOT SGPT high treatment. It is important to avoid alcoholic beverages to maintain liver health. Regular exercise like jogging and walking helps in maintaining your overall health by keeping the internal organs healthier. When you sweat, toxins are flushed out from your body thereby reducing the load on the liver. No smoking and exposure to harmful chemicals can also help in bringing down the AST SGOT high drastically.

Sometimes there might be a possibility of infection in the liver which could lead to an increase in SGOT/SGPT levels. In such cases, antiviral medications can be of great help in SGOT treatment.

portea at-home sgot test/asg test in top location include:

Bangalore, Delhi-NCR, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Pune, Lucknow, Indore.

Understanding results ofSGOT / AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase )

‘*A Reference range is a set of values which helps the healthcare professional to interpret a medical test. It may vary with age, gender, and other factors. Reference ranges may also vary between labs, in value & units depending on instruments used and method of establishment of reference ranges’

Conclusion

Liver function tests are an ideal way to ensure that there are no abnormalities and the liver is working correctly. It is advisable to make these tests a part of routine health checks to prevent life-threatening diseases in the future.

References

1. http://www.brennerchildrens.org/KidsHealth/Parents/Cancer-Center/Diagnostic-Tests/Blood-Test-Aspartate-Aminotransferase-AST-or-SGOT.htm
2. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1455072/
3. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/test-ast. html

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) – take the test in St. Petersburg

Medical center at Bogatyrsky pr., 4Laboratory terminal at Aleksandrovskaya Fermy avenue, 8Laboratory terminal at Nastavnikov avenue, 36k2Laboratory terminal at ul. Budapestskaya, 6Medical center on Pulkovskoye shosse, 28A Medical center on Kondratievsky prospect, 62k3Medical center on Prosveshcheniya avenue, 14k4Medical center on Moiseenko, 5Laboratory terminal on the street. Oleko Dundicha, 8, room 2Laboratory terminal on the street. Pestelya, 25AMedical center on Leninsky prospect, 88Medical center on Okhtinskaya alley, 4 (Murino, Leningrad region)Laboratory terminal on the street. Turku, 5/13 St. Petersburg, Exit serviceMedical center on the street. Savushkina, 14

Price:

225 ₽

Add to cart

The price does not include the cost
AST in a blood test – what is it? This is an analysis for the content in the blood of one of the liver enzymes – aspartate aminotransferase.

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found mainly in the cells of the liver and heart, so if the level of AST in the blood is high, this may indicate disorders of the liver and heart, including myocardial infarction.

AST analysis is in the range of liver tests along with ALT analysis, both tests are most often taken for suspected liver disease, also taking into account the ratio of both enzymes. An increase in the level of AST in the blood test means that the patient may have heart problems. If ALT is higher, then, first of all, it is necessary to examine the liver.

Method of determination

AST indicators are determined by the UV kinetic method.

Test material

Examine the serum of venous or capillary blood.

due date

AST blood test can be obtained in 1 day.

Readings

An AST analysis is indicated for patient complaints of abdominal pain, flatulence, nausea and vomiting, appetite disorders, itching and yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, weakness and fatigue. Dark urine at the same time as stool lightening are also alarming symptoms for the appointment of an analysis.

AST is also checked in people at risk: those who have had hepatitis or who have been in contact with an infected person, who suffer from chronic hepatitis, who abuse alcohol, drugs, and who take nephrotoxic drugs and dietary supplements. It is also advisable to periodically check AST in people who are overweight, have diabetes, and have a genetic predisposition to liver disease.

Regular checking of AST levels allows assessing the state of the liver in dynamics and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Preparation for analysis

An analysis for liver enzymes is usually taken in the morning, since 12 hours of abstinence from food is necessary. You can drink water. On the eve of the day of the study, it is necessary to exclude stress, both mental and physical, and also to abandon alcohol and energy drinks. Do not smoke one hour before blood sampling.

Synonyms: AST, Aspartate transaminase, AST/AST, Aspartate aminotransferase

Equipment: OLYMPUS AU/5800/680/480/-Beckman Coulter

Norms of AST in the blood depend on gender and age:

In children, the normative indicator varies depending on age:

If AST in the biochemical blood test is very high – more than 10 times or more than the norm – it is typical for viral infections. In patients with chronic hepatitis, AST is increased by 2-4 times, no more. Biliary obstruction, cirrhosis, and some types of liver tumors moderately increase AST.

* For current information, please contact the contact center at tel. 8 (812) 600-42-00

It is recommended to donate blood on an empty stomach (at least 6-8 hours of fasting). Drinking – water, as usual. On the eve of the study, exclude: food, physical and emotional overload, alcohol and energy drinks. Stop smoking 1 hour before the study.

Similar tests

Gastropanel (without stimulation): pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, gastrin-17, antibodies (Ig G) to Helicobacter pylori

up to 7 days

from 4,695 ₽

900 12 Add to cart

Pancreatic amylase

1 day

from 230 ₽

Add to cart

Cholinesterase

up to 10 days

from 180 ₽

Add to cart

Pepsinogen I

1-2 days

from 1 435 ₽

Add to cart

Pepsinogen II

1-2 days

from 1 435 ₽

Add to cart

Gastropanel (with stimulation): pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, gastr in-17, antibodies (Ig G) to Helicobacter pylori

up to 7 days

from 6 205 ₽

Add to cart

Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)

1 day Add to cart

Creatine kinase-MB (KK-MB)

1- 2 days

from 270 ₽

Add to cart

Creatine kinase

1 day

from 210 ₽

Add to cart new portion)

1 day

from 150 ₽

Add to cart

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

1 day

from 140 ₽

Add to cart

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

1 day

from 120 ₽

Add to cart

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

1 day

from 120 ₽

Add to cart

Amylase

1 day

from 1 80 ₽

Add to cart

Lipase

1 day

from 260 ₽

Add to cart

Liver test (ALT, AST, total bilirubin, GGT)

1 day

from 300 ₽

Add to cart 9000 3

Analysis available at these centers:

Medical center on Bogatyrsky pr. , 4

Medical center on the street. Moiseenko, 5

Medical center on Prosveshcheniya avenue, 14k4

Medical center on the street. Savushkina, 14

Laboratory terminal on the street. Turku, 5/13

Medical center on Okhtinskaya alley, 4 (Murino, Leningrad region)

Laboratory terminal on the street. Pestelya, 25A

Laboratory terminal on the street. Oleko Dundicha, 8, building 2

Laboratory terminal on the street. Budapestskaya, 6

Medical center at Pulkovskoe shosse, 28A

Laboratory terminal at Nastavnikov Ave., 36k2

Laboratory terminal at Aleksandrovskaya Ferma avenue, 8

Medical center on Leninsky pr. , 88

Medical center on Kondratievsky prospect, 62k3

ORTOKROSS clinic on the 5th line of V. O., 8A (official partner)

Laboratory terminal at Kronverksky pr., 31 (official partner)

Clinic “PulkovoStom” on Pulkovskoye shosse, 26, building 6. (official partner)

Laboratory terminal on the street. Savushkina, 124 (official partner)

Laboratory terminal on Bolshoy pr. V.O., 5 (official partner)

results, biochemical values, norms in children, women, handed over at a low price

Laboratory study of AST is included in the complex of classic liver tests, which determine the malfunction and state of the organ.

Convenient location

At your convenience

With the possibility of home visits

Anonymity guaranteed

Make an appointment

The administrator will contact you, determine the most suitable clinic and doctor, a convenient time and make an appointment.

Or call 8 (928) 517-15-15

Request a call

full name *

Telephone *

* – mandatory fields

By clicking on the button above, you agree that you have read and agree to
Privacy Policy

Application accepted

We will call you back soon

Without queues and waiting

Use an electronic appointment. The doctor will see you exactly at the specified time. If necessary, the appointment can be rescheduled to any other time convenient for you.

Convenient electronic card

We use a unified information system. We store the entire medical history in electronic form and can transfer images, analyzes and doctor’s conclusions to electronic media

Full equipment of clinics

Our clinics are equipped with all the necessary equipment to carry out any diagnostics you need in one clinic.

Intracellular endogenous enzyme AST from the group of transferases is found in all tissues of the body. However, most of all it is concentrated in the liver, heart muscle, renal parenchyma, pancreas. A smaller amount is found in skeletal muscles, cells of other organs of the body. Analysis of the level of aspartate aminotransferase helps to identify inflammation, the consequences of trauma and vascular ischemia.

Study description

The concentration of this enzyme in the blood of a healthy person is low. But with pathological, traumatic injuries of organs, the indicators in the analysis increase, therefore they are markers of certain pathologies and injuries.

Laboratory research AST is included in the complex of classic liver tests, which determine the malfunction and state of the organ. The determination of enzyme activity is often considered as part of a biochemical blood test.

Indications for testing

Often, AST is performed together with the determination of another enzyme – ALT (alanine aminotransferase). The elements are included in the screening study of liver function, which takes into account all the results.

Diagnosis of aspartate aminotransferase is prescribed to detect pathologies:

• Heart. Exceeding the reference values ​​will indicate a heart attack, inflammatory processes of the myocardium, angina pectoris, organ injuries;
• Liver. Very high values ​​- clinical signs of hepatitis, fibrosis, tumors, cirrhosis or hepatosis;
• Gallbladder. The analysis helps to detect the presence of stones, neoplasms, the cause of duct obstruction.

AST analysis is traditionally prescribed for all those wishing to donate blood as a donor and for patients before surgery. The study is also informative for determining injuries of internal organs and endocrine diseases.

Preparation

It is better to donate blood for analysis in the morning. To obtain reliable results, strict adherence to the rules for preparing the patient for the study is required.

The referring physician usually informs about them in advance:

• do not eat 14 hours before the procedure;
• drink only water, not allowed: tea, coffee, juices, soft drinks;
• do not drink alcoholic beverages a few days before the examination;
• psycho-emotional and physical stress should be avoided before analysis;
• one day before blood sampling, limit sweets and sugar in the diet;
• do not smoke 1-2 hours before testing.

If the patient is taking drugs prescribed by a doctor, you should discuss with him the advisability of taking them before diagnosis, postponing the examination to a later time or performing the study after the end of the course.

Increased enzyme levels can be triggered by vitamin A or medications: oral contraceptives, barbiturates, tranquilizers or antibiotics.

Interpretation of the results

The laboratory assistant compares the obtained data with the normal values. They are correlated with the sex and age of patients, so these factors are taken into account when evaluating the results.

The concentration of AST in the blood of children of both sexes, upper limits of the norm (in units/l)

• In newborns up to 5 days of age – 97
• In children from 6 days to six months – 77
• Six months to a year – 82
• One to three years – 48
• Three to six years – 36
• From six to 12 years old – 47
• Adolescent girls from 12 to 17 years old – 25
• Adolescent boys from 12 to 17 years old – 29

AST concentration in women, men is normal (in units / l

• Men over 18 years old – 40
• Women over 18 years old – 32

Pregnant women Recent stress, an intramuscular injection, and the intake of certain dietary supplements can briefly increase threshold values.