What is an AST blood test. How does it measure liver function. Why are AST tests performed. What do elevated AST levels indicate. How to prepare for an AST test. What are normal AST ranges. How is an AST test conducted.

What is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Its Role in Liver Function

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), also known as Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme found throughout the body, with particularly high concentrations in the liver. This enzyme plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism and energy production within cells.

AST is present in various tissues, including:

• Liver
• Heart
• Muscles
• Kidneys
• Brain

When these organs or tissues are damaged, AST is released into the bloodstream. As a result, elevated levels of AST in the blood can indicate potential tissue damage or disease, particularly in the liver.

The Significance of AST in Liver Function Assessment

AST is a vital component in assessing liver health and function. It serves as a biomarker for liver cell damage, as increased levels often correlate with liver injury or disease. However, it’s important to note that AST is not liver-specific, and elevated levels can also result from damage to other organs, such as the heart or muscles.

The Purpose and Importance of AST Blood Tests

AST blood tests are essential diagnostic tools used by healthcare professionals to evaluate liver function and detect potential liver disorders. These tests measure the concentration of AST enzymes in the blood, providing valuable insights into liver health.

Key reasons for conducting AST blood tests include:

1. Diagnosing liver diseases
2. Monitoring the progression of liver conditions
3. Assessing the effectiveness of hepatitis treatments
4. Evaluating potential liver damage from medications
5. Screening for liver problems in high-risk individuals

AST tests are often performed in conjunction with other liver function tests, such as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), to provide a comprehensive assessment of liver health.

Understanding AST Test Results and Normal Ranges

Interpreting AST test results requires an understanding of normal ranges and potential factors that can influence these values. AST levels are typically measured in units per liter (U/L) of blood.

Normal AST ranges can vary depending on factors such as:

• Age
• Gender
• Laboratory standards
• Overall health status

Generally, normal AST levels for adults range between 8 and 45 U/L. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate interpretation of results, as individual circumstances may affect what is considered normal.

Factors Influencing AST Levels

Several factors can impact AST levels in the blood, including:

• Liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease)
• Muscle damage or injury
• Heart conditions
• Certain medications
• Alcohol consumption
• Obesity
• Strenuous exercise

Healthcare providers consider these factors when interpreting AST test results to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Preparing for an AST Blood Test: What You Need to Know

Proper preparation is essential for obtaining accurate AST test results. While AST blood tests generally don’t require extensive preparation, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

Fasting Requirements

In most cases, fasting is not necessary for an AST blood test. However, your healthcare provider may recommend fasting for 8 to 12 hours before the test, especially if other blood tests are being conducted simultaneously. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions regarding food and drink consumption prior to the test.

Medication Considerations

Certain medications can affect AST levels in the blood. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you’re currently taking. They may advise you to temporarily discontinue specific medications before the test to ensure accurate results.

Lifestyle Factors

To obtain the most accurate AST test results, consider the following lifestyle factors:

• Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before the test, as it can temporarily elevate AST levels
• Limit alcohol consumption in the days leading up to the test
• Maintain your regular diet unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider

By following these preparation guidelines, you can help ensure that your AST test results accurately reflect your liver health status.

The AST Blood Test Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the AST blood test procedure can help alleviate any concerns or anxiety you may have about the process. Here’s what you can expect during an AST blood test:

Before the Test

Upon arrival at the laboratory or healthcare facility, you’ll be asked to verify your identity and provide any necessary information about your medical history or current medications. The healthcare professional will explain the procedure and address any questions or concerns you may have.

During the Test

The AST blood test involves a simple blood draw, typically from a vein in your arm. The procedure usually follows these steps:

1. The healthcare professional will clean the area where the blood will be drawn, usually the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand.
2. An elastic band will be placed around your upper arm to increase blood flow in the vein.
3. A small needle will be inserted into the vein to collect the blood sample.
4. The blood will be drawn into a small vial or tube.
5. The needle will be removed, and a small bandage will be applied to the puncture site.

The entire process typically takes only a few minutes and causes minimal discomfort.

After the Test

Following the blood draw, you may experience slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site. This is normal and should resolve within a day or two. You can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the test.

Interpreting Elevated AST Levels: Potential Causes and Implications

Elevated AST levels can indicate various underlying health issues, primarily related to liver function. However, it’s important to note that AST levels alone are not definitive in diagnosing specific conditions. Healthcare providers consider AST results in conjunction with other liver function tests and clinical symptoms to make accurate diagnoses.

Common Causes of Elevated AST Levels

Increased AST levels in the blood can result from several factors, including:

• Acute or chronic hepatitis
• Alcoholic liver disease
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer
• Medications that affect liver function
• Muscle damage or injury
• Heart attack or heart failure
• Mononucleosis
• Pancreatitis

AST to ALT Ratio

In addition to evaluating AST levels alone, healthcare providers often consider the ratio of AST to ALT (another liver enzyme) to gain further insights into potential liver conditions. For example:

• An AST/ALT ratio greater than 2:1 may suggest alcoholic liver disease
• An AST/ALT ratio less than 1:1 is more commonly associated with viral hepatitis or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

It’s important to remember that these ratios are general guidelines and should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of an individual’s overall health status and other diagnostic tests.

AST Testing in Conjunction with Other Liver Function Tests

While AST tests provide valuable information about liver health, they are often performed as part of a comprehensive liver function panel. This approach allows healthcare providers to gain a more complete understanding of liver function and potential underlying conditions.

Common Liver Function Tests

In addition to AST, other liver function tests that may be conducted include:

• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Another liver enzyme that can indicate liver cell damage
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme that can be elevated in cases of bile duct obstruction or certain liver diseases
• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): An enzyme sensitive to alcohol consumption and certain liver diseases
• Bilirubin: A breakdown product of red blood cells that can indicate liver or bile duct problems when elevated
• Albumin: A protein produced by the liver that can be decreased in chronic liver disease
• Prothrombin Time (PT): A measure of blood clotting function, which can be affected by liver disease

By evaluating these tests collectively, healthcare providers can more accurately assess liver function and identify potential liver disorders.

The Role of Imaging Studies

In some cases, abnormal liver function test results may prompt healthcare providers to recommend imaging studies to further evaluate liver health. These may include:

• Ultrasound
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Fibroscan (liver elastography)

These imaging techniques can provide detailed information about liver structure, tissue health, and the presence of any abnormalities or tumors.

Monitoring Liver Health: The Importance of Regular AST Testing

Regular AST testing plays a crucial role in monitoring liver health, especially for individuals with known liver conditions or those at high risk for liver disease. By tracking AST levels over time, healthcare providers can:

• Assess the progression of liver diseases
• Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments
• Detect potential liver problems early
• Monitor the impact of medications on liver function

Frequency of AST Testing

The frequency of AST testing depends on individual circumstances and may vary based on factors such as:

• Presence of existing liver conditions
• Risk factors for liver disease
• Current medications
• Overall health status

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate testing schedule based on your specific needs and medical history.

Lifestyle Modifications for Liver Health

In addition to regular AST testing, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain liver health and potentially improve AST levels:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid exposure to toxins and chemicals that can harm the liver
• Practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles to prevent viral hepatitis
• Manage underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol

By combining regular AST testing with healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can take an active role in maintaining optimal liver function and overall health.

AST SGOT Blood Test | Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test

• Description

• How it Works

• Reviews

Also Known As

Aspartate Aminotransferase, Aspartate Transaminase, AST, Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase, SGOT

The Purpose of an AST Blood Test

What is AST SGOT in a blood test? Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT) are both names for an enzyme found throughout the body, particularly in the liver. An AST SGOT blood test is often used to diagnose or monitor acute or chronic hepatitis, or for monitoring drug therapy that affects the liver. It’s one of several Personalabs tests that assess liver function.

AST (SGOT) (822)

AST (SGOT) (001123)

What Does the AST SGOT Test Measure?

Testing will measure the level of AST in the blood. Your physician may want to run other tests at the same time, particularly when trying to diagnose an issue with your liver health. Commonly ordered tests include the:

• Aldolase Blood Test
• Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) Blood Test
• Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test

Who Should Take an AST Blood Test?

This test can be used if you want to screen for liver problems, or if your physician is trying to make a diagnosis and wants to track your liver function. It may also be employed if you need to keep tabs on your hepatitis treatment or are experiencing symptoms associated with liver damage, such as jaundice.

AST SGOT Blood Test Preparation

No special preparation is required for the blood draw.

SGOT AST Test Results

An increase in AST from the liver indicates potential damage or disease in the liver cell; if AST SGOT is low, that is considered normal. AST levels typically range between 8 and 45 units per liter, but that can vary based on factors such as gender, age, and the lab that conducted the test.

You may have questions about what your results mean for your health. We can help you get answers–just book a convenient telehealth visit with one of our board-certified doctors from your home or office.

Where Can I Get an AST SGOT Test Near Me?

Taking care of your health has never been easier when you use Personalabs tests. We partner with Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics, two of America’s leading clinical laboratories, so you can access more than 4,000 lab locations across the country. You’re sure to find a convenient location for your AST SGOT testing.

We’ve streamlined the testing process for you:

Step 1: Find the test you want to purchase online and download the corresponding lab order. (You won’t need preapproval from your doctor, depending on which state you live in.)

Step 2: Visit our lab locator and make an appointment for the blood draw.

Step 3: Bring the AST test order to the lab when it’s time for your appointment.

Step 4: You can expect to receive test results in your private and secure Personalabs account within 2 to 10 business days. (Contact us if you need a specific turnaround time, which can vary by test location, and we will contact the lab on your behalf.)

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STEP 1

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Create an account, choose your tests, checkout securely, generate your lab order

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Our physician network will approve your order within 2-4hrs.

STEP 3

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The test price decides which lab you will visit: Quest or Labcorp. Find a location in your area.

STEP 4

Get Your Results

Results can be provided in as little as 24-48 hrs. For more complex tests, please contact us for turn around times.

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.

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 ₽

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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.

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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.

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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.