What is ast sgot in blood work

It is also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, or SGOT. AST is a protein made by liver cells. When cells in any of those parts of the body are damaged, AST can be elevated.

A high AST level often means there is some liver damage, but it is not necessarily caused by hepatitis C. It is important to realize that the AST level in most patients with hepatitis C goes up and down.

The exact AST level does not tell you how much liver damage there is, or whether the liver is getting better or worse, and small changes should be expected.

Low levels of AST are normally found in the blood. When body tissue or an organ such as the heart or liver is diseased or damaged, additional AST is released into the bloodstream. The amount of AST in the blood is directly related to the extent of the tissue damage. After severe damage, AST levels rise in 6 to 10 hours and remain high for about 4 days.

When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch. There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site. Results are usually available within 12 hours. 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. Other names: SGOT test, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase test; aspartate transaminase test. An AST blood test is often included in a routine blood screening. The test may also be used to help diagnose or monitor liver problems. You may get an AST blood test as part of your routine checkup or if you have symptoms of liver damage.

These may include:. Even if you don't have symptoms, your health care provider may order an AST blood test if you are at a higher risk of liver disease. Risk factors for liver disease include:.

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

You don't need any special preparations for an AST blood test. International Services. Video Visits: Telemedicine. Locations Main Campus. Satellite Locations. Emergency Care. Urgent Care. Safe Sleep Practices. Pay Your Bill. Financial Assistance. Medical Records. About Us Who We Are. Patient Stories. Get Involved. Health Alerts: Coronavirus. Health Library. Flu Information.

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