Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST/SGOT)

About the Test

The AST (SGOT) test is a blood test used to measure the level of aspartate aminotransferase, an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, especially the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys. This enzyme plays a role in amino acid metabolism.

When cells in these tissues are damaged, AST is released into the bloodstream, causing its levels to rise. The AST test is commonly used to assess liver health and detect tissue damage. It is often performed along with Alanine Aminotransferase to better evaluate liver function.

Who should get this test done?

The AST test is recommended for individuals with symptoms of liver or muscle disorders. You should consider this test if you:

• Have fatigue or weakness
• Experience jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Have abdominal pain or swelling
• Notice dark urine or pale stools
• Experience nausea or vomiting
• Have a history of liver disease
• Consume alcohol regularly or excessively
• Take medications that may affect the liver
• Have muscle pain, injury, or weakness
• Have been exposed to infections affecting the liver such as Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C

Why consider this test?

The AST test helps in detecting and monitoring liver and tissue damage. It is an important component of liver function assessment.

This test is used to:

• Evaluate liver health and detect liver injury
• Diagnose conditions such as Hepatitis
• Monitor chronic liver diseases
• Assess damage due to alcohol or medications
• Detect muscle or heart-related injury

More information

The AST test is a simple blood test that requires a small sample of blood. No special preparation is usually required, although your doctor may advise fasting depending on other tests.

• Normal range: Typically around 10–40 U/L (may vary by laboratory)
• Elevated levels: May indicate liver damage, muscle injury, or other tissue damage

Higher AST levels are commonly seen in conditions such as liver inflammation, alcohol-related liver disease, and muscle disorders. Interpretation is usually done along with ALT and other investigations for better accuracy.

Other names

The AST test is also known by several other names:

• SGOT (Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase)
• Aspartate transaminase test
• AST blood test
• Liver enzyme test (AST)