Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
Results
An aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test measures the amount of this Reference enzyme Opens New Window in the blood. Results are usually available within 12 hours.
Normal
The normal values listed here—called a reference range—are just a guide. These ranges vary from lab to lab, and your lab may have a different range for what’s normal. Your lab report should contain the range your lab uses. Also, your doctor will evaluate your results based on your health and other factors. This means that a value that falls outside the normal values listed here may still be normal for you or your lab.
|
Males: |
14–20 Reference units per liter (U/L) Opens New Window or 0.23–0.33 Reference microkats per liter (mckat/L) Opens New Window |
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Females: |
10–36 U/L or 0.17–0.60 mckat/L |
High values
High levels of AST may be caused by:
- Liver damage from conditions such as Reference hepatitis Opens New Window or Reference cirrhosis Opens New Window.
- Decay of a large tumor (necrosis).
- A Reference heart attack Opens New Window or Reference heart failure Opens New Window.
- Many medicines, such as Reference statins Opens New Window, Reference antibiotics Opens New Window, Reference chemotherapy Opens New Window, aspirin, Reference narcotics Opens New Window, and Reference barbiturates Opens New Window.
- Having taken high doses of vitamin A.
- Kidney or lung damage.
- Reference Mononucleosis Opens New Window.
- Some types of cancer.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
