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AST

CPT/HCPCS 84450
Order Code CH119
Turnaround Time 24 hours
Test Includes

AST

Specimen Requirements
Specimen Source
Serum/Plasma
Transport Container
(Specimen Container)

SST (Tiger Top)
Lithium Heparin/ Sodium Heparin

Preferred Specimens
Serum
Minimum Volume (uL)
.5 mL
Collection Instructions
(Transport Temperature)
Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Temperature Period
Room temperature 4 days
Refrigerated 7 days
Frozen 12 weeks
Test Details
Methodology
Enzymatic (NADH (without P-5'-P))
Clinical Significance

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also referred to as glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), is one of a group of enzymes which catalyzes the interconversion of amino acids and α-keto acids by transfer of amino groups. Both AST and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) are normally found in most body fluids, but not in urine except in instances of kidney lesions. The greatest concentrations of AST are found in heart, liver, muscle, and kidney tissues. Damage to these tissues can greatly elevate serum AST levels. Following myocardial infarction, AST in serum begins to increase within 6 to 8 hours of onset of pain, reaching a peak within 18 to 24 hours and falling to normal by the fourth or fifth day. Serum values may increase to 10 to 15 times normal levels and the increase is roughly proportional to the degree of tissue damage.

Reference Ranges

Male:
23 – 186 U/L (0 Days – 14 Days)
23 – 83 U/L (14 Days – 1 Years)
5 – 51 U/L (1 Year – No Max Age Limit)

Female:
23 – 186 U/L (0 Days – 14 Days)
23 – 83 U/L (14 Days – 1 Years)
5 – 34 U/L (1 Year – No Max Age Limit)