What is this test?
AST is an enzyme found in liver, muscle, heart and other tissues. A rise shows cell injury somewhere in the body but is not specific to the liver.
Why might it be ordered?
- To assess possible liver injury together with other liver tests.
- To investigate muscle injury or monitor a condition or medicine that can affect tissues containing AST.
What sample is needed?
A blood sample is required. The laboratory chooses the correct tube and handles the sample for this test.
How should you prepare?
Ask the laboratory whether you need to fast or attend at a particular time. Do not stop or change medicines or supplements unless your clinician tells you to.
How should you understand the result?
AST is interpreted with ALT, GGT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin and sometimes CK. Strenuous exercise or muscle injury can raise it.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.