Aspartate Aminotransferase, or AST, is an enzyme that is typically found in red blood cells, liver, kidneys, heart, and muscle tissue. AST generally exists in small quantities, however, there are certain circumstances where the levels can increase dramatically. An AST test measures the amount of this enzyme in the patient’s blood.
When high levels of AST are found in the blood, it is generally traced back to diseased or damaged body tissue or organs. Most commonly, AST release takes place after the heart or liver become damaged. AST will be released into the bloodstream within a few hours and remain in the body for a few days.
An ALTS, or alanine aminotransferas, test can also be done in sync with an AST test. The ratio of these two enzymes can help a specialist determine which organ is suffering the damage.
The AST and ALTS tests are performed to find the cause of liver damage.
Possible reasons for increased AST levels
- Severe liver damage caused by hepatitis or viral infection
- Large tumors that are decaying
- Alcohol abuse
- Lung damage
- Kidney damage
- Certain types of cancer
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Heart failure
It is important to note that if AST levels are declining, your body is most likely recovering.