answersLogoWhite

0

What does AST on a blood test mean?

Updated: 9/14/2023
User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Best Answer

AST stands for aspartate transaminase.

It is an enzyme found in various cells, including liver cells, and elevated levels may indicate liver damage, but must be interpreted in the context of other liver tests, as it is not only found in liver cells, but other cell types as well.

THIS TEST IS FOR LIVER PROBLEMS! CAN YOU BETTER DEFINE YOUR QUESTION AS RELATED TO A CURRETN CONDITION?

An initial step in detecting liver damage is a simple blood test to determine the presence of certain liver enzymes in the blood. Under normal circumstances, these enzymes reside within the cells of the liver. But when the liver is injured for any reason, these enzymes are spilled into the blood stream. Enzymes are proteins that are present throughout the body, each with a unique function. Enzymes help to speed up (catalyze) routine and necessary chemical reactions in the body. Among the most sensitive and widely used of these liver enzymes are the aminotransferases. They include aspartate aminotransferase (AST or SGOT) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT). These enzymes are normally contained within liver cells. If the liver is injured, the liver cells spill the enzymes into blood, raising the enzyme levels in the blood and signaling the liver damage.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What does AST on a blood test mean?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp