AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in heart muscle and liver and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

This article discusses the test to measure the amount of AST in the blood.

Aspartate aminotransferase; Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase; SGOT

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

This test is mainly done along with other tests (such as ALT, ALP, and bilirubin) to diagnose and monitor liver disease.

Review Date: 02/20/2011
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)