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Aspartate aminotransferase blood test
Normal Reference Range
5 – 35 IU/mL
Test Information
AST, which is found in the liver, heart, muscle, kidney, and brain, is released into the serum when any one of these tissues is injured. Acute hepatitis is characterised by AST values that are more than 10 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), a rapidly advancing liver illness that is commonly caused by a virus infection. When alcohol-related liver damage occurs, AST frequently increases noticeably more than ALT (this pattern is seen with just a few other liver diseases). The content of AST may increase after the breakdown of red blood cells (haemolysis).
Clinical Indications
AST blood test is used in conjunction with ALT and alkaline phosphatase to identify and track liver damage, excessive alcohol use, drug-induced hepatitis, etc. a severe trauma that causes the muscle cells to release the AST enzyme. AST levels can be raised by intramuscular injections and strenuous activity.
Sample Required
5mL serum sample tube is required for AST blood test
Min. sample volume
0.5mL
Special Instructions and Precautions
Samples for AST must be spun immediately and separated from RBC to ensure correct AST levels are achieved.
Time Limits For Retrospective Testing
5 days
Any factors affecting the test
Not applicable
Turnaround Time
4 hrs
Referral centre (if applicable)
Not applicable
Test Code
AST, LFT, or CE