Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) testing is used to evaluate what?

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) testing is primarily used to evaluate liver damage. AST is an enzyme that is found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys. However, elevated levels of AST are particularly associated with liver conditions.

When liver cells are damaged due to conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver tumors, AST is released into the bloodstream, leading to higher levels detected in lab tests. Therefore, measuring AST levels can provide important information regarding liver health and help diagnose liver-related diseases.

While the enzyme can also be elevated in other conditions affecting the heart or muscles, its primary clinical use is to investigate potential liver issues. This specificity makes it an essential component of liver function tests used by healthcare providers.