Book Aspartate Aminotransferase Test Online
Last Updated on 27th January 2022Table of contents
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What is the Aminotransferase (AST) Test used for?
This test is used to:
- Detecting liver damage.
- Assist in the diagnosis of liver disease, such as hepatitis.
- Assess the effectiveness of liver disease treatment.
- Determine whether jaundice is the result of a blood illness or liver disease.
- Track of the symptoms of medications that have the potential to harm the liver.
What is included in an AST test?
An AST test is often included as part of routine blood screening. It can also be used to diagnose and monitor liver disease.
Procedure for AST Test
The following provides further information about how the AST test is conducted:
- It is a straightforward blood test that is performed by extracting blood from a vein in your arm.
- The blood sample is subsequently sent to a laboratory for SGOT level examination.
The majority of blood tests require a tiny volume of blood to be drawn from a vein. To accomplish this, a health care provider will:
- Clean the region, place an elastic band (tourniquet) over it to cause the veins to bulge with blood.
- Insert the needle into the vein (usually in the arm inside of the elbow or on the back of the hand)
- Draw blood with a vial or syringe.
- Remove the elastic band from the vein and the needle
- Needle insertion would cause minor pinprick pain
How to prepare for the AST test?
No specific preparations are needed for an ASTtest. Disclose all the medications you are taking to your healthcare provider before testing.
Things to consider after the AST test is complete
Once the test is done and the result is available, please consult your doctor. The doctor would suggest further diagnostic tests or starting medications based on your results. Please do not self-diagnose.
What types of infections can the AST test detect?
- Liver cancer cirrhosis
- Certain genetic disorders are autoimmune diseases.
- Fatty liver illness that is not caused by alcohol (NAFLD)
- In physical damage, liver trauma occurs.
How much does an AST test cost?*
The cost of a comprehensive ASTtest ranges from 99 to 200 rupees. The cost mainly depends upon the number of allergens that will be evaluated.
*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.
How long does it take to get the results for an AST test?
You can expect to get the results for the AST test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in certain cases, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.
What do abnormal ASTtest results indicate?
High levels of AST in the blood may indicate hepatitis, cirrhosis, mononucleosis, or other liver diseases. High AST levels can also indicate heart problems or pancreatitis. If your results are not in the normal range, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a medical condition needing treatment.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
Is the AST test a definitive test?
The AST test is not definitive. The test is usually performed as an initial diagnostic test for liver disease. It is a blood test that scans for any damage to the liver. AST or SGOT (serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase) is an enzyme produced in higher amounts by the liver. It is also made by other organs like kidneys, heart and brain in smaller amounts.
How to read the AST test report?
A blood test for aspartate aminotransferase (AST) determines the concentration of this enzyme in the blood. Typically, results are available within 12 hours.
Normal
- The usual values indicated here—referred to as a reference range—are provided as a reference only.
- These ranges vary by laboratory, and your lab may have a different definition of what is considered normal.
- Your laboratory report should provide the range that your laboratory uses.
- Additionally, your physician will assess your results in light of your health and other relevant circumstances.
- This means that a value that is outside the range of the typical values indicated here may nevertheless be considered normal for you or your laboratory.
AST Normal Values
Gender | Normal results |
Males | 14–40 units per litre (U/L) |
Females | 10–36 U/L |
*The values in the table depict the international reference range. The actual range may vary with the diagnostic test used, laboratory, patients’ age, and allergen type.
High result
- Increased AST levels may be caused by the following: Liver damage caused by hepatitis or cirrhosis.
- A coronary artery bypasses graft or heart failure.
- Numerous medications, including statins, antibiotics, chemotherapy, aspirin, opioid pain medications, and barbiturates.
- Extremely vigorous exertion or a significant muscle injury.
- Vitamin A at high doses.
- Damage to the kidneys or lungs.
- Mononucleosis.
- Certain forms of cancer.
To understand the test report, it is important to know the enzyme’s reference range below:
- Men have a normal AST range of 10 to 40 units/L, while women have a normal range of 9 to 32 units/L.
- If the test results exceed the SGOT normal range, it indicates that the organ containing the enzyme may have been harmed.
AST test at home – how does it work?
The Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test is just like any other blood test. A phlebotomist visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The phlebotomist first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The phlebotomist then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.
Are there any risks involved with the AST test?
The Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Test does not involve any risks. Some people may experience pain, swelling, and redness at the site of needle insertion.
What can affect the results of an AST test?
- If you have taken any over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen before or within a few days of the test, the findings may be tainted.
- Consumption of alcohol
- Fever
Why book an AST Test?
- Individuals who may have been infected with hepatitis viruses
- Individuals who consume excessive amounts of alcohol
- Individuals having a history of liver illness in their family
- Individuals who use medications that may cause liver damage
- Overweight and diabetic individuals
Our Trusted Lab Partners for Aspartate Aminotransferase Test
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Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Are MFine’s lab partners accredited?
Yes, all our lab partners are NABL (National Accreditation Board of Testing and Calibration of Laboratories) accredited labs. Thyrocare, Prima Diagnostics, Neuberg, Healthians are to name a few of our top lab partners. Most of our lab partners have state of the art infrastructure facilities.
Where does MFine provide at-home AST test services?
With MFine, you can avail the lab tests at home from all top cities of India like Bangalore. Hyderabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Noida, Gurgaon, Pune, and more. Choose your preferred lab partner from your city and get samples collected from your home.
When will I receive my AST test results?
You will receive your test results within 48 hours from sample collection. You can download your reports from MFine and get a free consultation with a senior doctor to review your results.
What are the safety measures taken by MFine while performing lab tests at home?
Safety and social distancing are our top-most priorities, especially during the pandemic. The lab technician who visits your home for sample collection will be vaccinated and checked for symptoms before being assigned. Our technician will also be wearing masks, gloves, and using a sanitiser to ensure safety.
How long is the AST Test?
The majority of blood tests take only a few minutes. Occasionally, it can be difficult to locate a vein, and the health professional may need to attempt multiple times.
What happens immediately following an AST Test?
The health care provider will remove the elastic band and needle and apply cotton or a bandage to the region to halt the bleeding. Following the procedure, there may be slight bruising, which should subside within a few days.
Are there any risks associated with AST Tests?
An AST test is a relatively safe technique with few dangers. Certain children may experience dizziness or lightheadedness as a result of the test. A few children and adolescents have an intense dread of needles. If your child is anxious, discuss possible strategies to ease the procedure with the doctor before the test.
What factors contribute to elevated ALT and AST levels?
Elevated ALT and AST levels are frequently caused by viral liver infections, alcohol misuse, cirrhosis (from any chronic cause), and others. Normal ALT (SGPT) levels range between approximately 7 and 56 units/litre of serum (the liquid component of the blood), while normal AST (SGOT) levels range between approximately 5 and 40 units/litre of serum.
Is a high AST and ALT level indicative of liver damage?
When the liver is harmed, ALT is released into the circulation, increasing blood levels of transaminase of aspartate (AST). AST is an enzyme that assists in the metabolization of amino acids. As with ALT, AST is generally seen in trace amounts in the blood. An increase in AST levels may indicate injury to the liver, illness, or muscle.
What additional tests might I have in addition to the SGOT / AST Test?
Along with this test, the doctor may order additional liver function tests. These tests include the following:
- Test for alanine transaminase (ALT)
- Test for alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
- Albumin test: This test gives solid evidence of the liver’s ability to produce albumin protein.
- Bilirubin test: When the liver is injured, it cannot properly process bilirubin, resulting in elevated blood levels.
- Glucose test: If the liver is not functioning properly, abnormally high glucose levels are found.
- Platelet Count: A low platelet count may indicate an underlying liver disorder.