Aspartate Aminotransferase
Canonical name: AST
What It Is
AST is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, and muscles. It is often measured alongside ALT.
The activity of aspartate aminotransferase enzyme in the blood.
Why It May Be Tested
As part of a liver panel to assess liver health.
How Results Are Reported
Results for aspartate aminotransferase are reported as a numerical value with an associated unit of measurement. The unit depends on the laboratory and the assay method used. When comparing results from different labs, always confirm the units match before drawing conclusions about a trend.
Units
This biomarker may be reported in any of the following units:
Reference Range Context
Reference ranges vary from laboratory to laboratory. They are established by each lab based on its own testing method, equipment, and the population it serves. A result that appears outside the reference range on one lab's report may fall within range on another's.
Ranges can also differ by age, biological sex, and other individual factors. Some labs report multiple reference ranges for different patient groups. Always interpret your result against the reference range printed on the specific lab report, not against a general value you find online.
A result flagged as “out of range” does not by itself indicate a medical condition. Discuss any results that concern you with a qualified healthcare professional.
Reference ranges are shown as reported by the source laboratory and may vary.
Factors That Can Affect Results
Exercise, muscle injury, medications, and alcohol can affect AST.
Tracking Over Time
A single Aspartate Aminotransferase result is a snapshot. Tracking it over time is where the real insight lives. TrackMyMarkers lets you record every result from every lab, automatically aligning units so you can see genuine trends across months and years.
Longitudinal tracking helps you and your healthcare professional spot gradual shifts, see how lifestyle changes correlate with your numbers, and bring clear, organized data to every appointment.
Questions for Your Healthcare Professional
Consider bringing these questions to your next appointment:
- How has my AST changed?
- What is my AST to ALT ratio?
References
References and source citations will be added here. In the meantime, the information on this page is intended for general educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Read our lab guidesTrackMyMarkers helps users organize, track and understand laboratory results over time for educational purposes. It does not provide medical diagnosis or treatment and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.