Aspartate transferase (AST) is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, and other organs. An AST blood test measures the amount of AST in the blood. It is used to detect liver damage or disease, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions.
How is aspartate transferase (AST) different from alanine transferase (ALT)?
AST and ALT are both enzymes found in the liver, but they have different functions. AST is found in the heart, liver, and other organs, while ALT is found mainly in the liver. AST is released into the bloodstream when the liver is damaged, while ALT is released when the liver is inflamed.
Why do I need an AST blood test?
An AST blood test is used to detect liver damage or disease, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions. It can also be used to screen for certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer. It can also be used to monitor the progress of certain treatments, such as chemotherapy.
Who performs an AST blood test?
An AST blood test is usually performed by a doctor or a medical technician. The test is usually done in a laboratory or doctor’s office.
Do I need to fast for an AST blood test?
No, you do not need to fast for an AST blood test. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have recently taken any medications or supplements that could affect the results of the test.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for an AST blood test?
No, you do not need to do anything to prepare for an AST blood test. However, it is important to tell your doctor if you have recently taken any medications or supplements that could affect the results of the test.
What should I expect during my AST blood test?
During an AST blood test, a small sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What should I expect after my AST blood test?
After an AST blood test, you may experience some minor bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was taken. This should go away within a few days.
What are the risks of an AST blood test?
The risks of an AST blood test are minimal. The most common risk is bruising or discomfort at the site where the blood was taken. Rarely, an infection may occur at the site.
When can I expect the results of my AST blood test?
The results of an AST blood test are usually available within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
What do the results of an AST blood test mean?
The results of an AST blood test can indicate whether or not there is liver damage or disease. The results can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for certain conditions.
What is the normal range for an AST blood test?
The normal range for an AST blood test is typically between 10 and 40 units per liter (U/L). However, this range may vary depending on the laboratory.
What does it mean if my AST level is high?
If your AST level is high, it may indicate that there is liver damage or disease. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing.
Should I be worried if I have a high AST test result?
If your AST level is high, it may indicate that there is liver damage or disease. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing.
Do I need follow-up tests if my AST results are abnormal?
If your AST results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the cause. This may include additional blood tests, imaging tests, or a biopsy.
When should I call my doctor?
You should call your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your AST results. You should also call your doctor if you experience any symptoms of liver damage or disease, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or fatigue.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (2020). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ast-test/about/pac-20384717
- Lab Tests Online. (2020). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test. Retrieved from https://labtestsonline.org/tests/aspartate-aminotransferase-ast
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003476.htm
- American Liver Foundation. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/tests/ast-aspartate-aminotransferase-test/
- Cleveland Clinic. (2020). AST (aspartate aminotransferase) test. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17072-ast-aspartate-aminotransferase-test
Keywords: AST, Aspartate Transferase, AST Blood Test, ALT, Alanine Transferase, Liver Damage, Liver Disease, Liver Cancer, Screening, Monitoring, Diagnosing