SGOT/AST (Aspartate Amino-Transferase) – BC284
Liver Function TestReport: Same Day
Sample Type: Blood (Serum)
Test Code: BC284
The SGOT/AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) test measures the level of the AST enzyme in your blood. AST is found primarily in the liver, but also in significant amounts in the heart, muscles, kidneys, and brain. Elevated levels typically indicate damage to one of these tissues.
✔ A crucial component of the Liver Function Test (LFT) panel.
✔ Helps in diagnosing and monitoring liver damage or disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis).
✔ Can also be elevated due to heart attack or muscle injury.
✔ Often interpreted alongside the ALT (SGPT) test to help determine the source of damage.
AST: A Marker of Cellular Damage
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), historically known as Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme involved in amino acid metabolism. It is present inside the cells of various tissues. When these tissues are damaged due to injury or disease, the cells break open and release AST into the bloodstream, causing the levels measured in a blood test to rise.
While AST is present in many tissues, it is most concentrated in the liver and heart. Therefore, significantly elevated AST levels often point towards liver damage (like viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver disease, or medication-induced injury) or heart damage (like a heart attack).
The Importance of the AST/ALT Ratio
AST is almost always interpreted alongside another liver enzyme, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT). ALT is found in much higher concentrations in the liver than in other tissues, making it a more specific indicator of liver damage.
Comparing the levels of AST and ALT (the AST/ALT ratio) provides valuable diagnostic clues:
- In most types of acute liver injury (e.g., viral hepatitis, medication toxicity), ALT is usually higher than AST (AST/ALT ratio < 1).
- In alcoholic liver disease, AST is often significantly higher than ALT, typically with an AST/ALT ratio > 2.
- In muscle injury or heart attack, AST levels rise significantly, while ALT levels may rise only slightly or remain normal.
This comparative analysis helps your doctor pinpoint the likely source of the elevated enzymes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It measures the level of the enzyme Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) in your blood. AST is released into the blood when cells in your liver, heart, or muscles are damaged.
This test is a standard part of a Liver Function Test (LFT) to check for liver damage. Your doctor might also order it if you have symptoms of liver disease (like jaundice or abdominal pain) or to monitor a known liver condition. It may also be ordered if a heart attack or muscle injury is suspected.
A high level indicates damage to tissues where AST is found, most commonly the liver. Other causes include heart attack, muscle injury, or certain medications. Your doctor will interpret the result along with other tests, especially ALT/SGPT.
Both are liver enzymes. However, ALT (SGPT) is found primarily in the liver, making it a more specific marker for liver damage. AST (SGOT) is found in the liver but also in the heart, muscles, and other tissues. Comparing the two helps determine the source of the problem.
Fasting is not strictly required for the AST test alone, but it is often part of a Liver Function Panel for which fasting (8-12 hours) is generally recommended to ensure accuracy of all components. Check with your doctor or the lab.