AST (aspartate aminotransferase), also called SGOT, is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, muscles and red blood cells.
- Normal range (adults)
- Men 10–40 U/L · Women 10–35 U/L
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not usually needed
- Also called
- AST, SGOT, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Aspartate Transaminase, GOT, Serum GOT, ASAT
AST normal range
| Group | U/LSame unit in all countries |
|---|---|
| Men | 10–40 |
| Women | 10–35 |
Ranges vary slightly between laboratories. The range printed on your own report is the one to go by.
Why is the AST test done?
It is part of the liver function test and is interpreted together with ALT.
What does a high AST level mean?
A high AST suggests liver or muscle injury. When AST is clearly higher than ALT, alcohol-related liver disease or muscle damage is more likely.
Common causes
- Fatty liver and hepatitis
- Alcohol
- Muscle injury or intense exercise
- Some medicines
- Heart attack (rarely used to diagnose it today)
- Hemolysis (red-cell breakdown)
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Avoid alcohol
- Lose excess weight and cut sugar and fried foods
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 2 to 3 days before a repeat test
- Eat vegetables, legumes, whole grains and fish
What does a low AST level mean?
A low AST is not usually a concern.
Common causes
- Normal variation
- Vitamin B6 deficiency (rarely)
Diet and lifestyle tips
- No action needed
When should you see a doctor?
Discuss a raised AST with your doctor together with ALT, GGT and CK (a muscle enzyme).
Last updated
This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, so always compare your result with the reference range printed on your own report, and discuss abnormal results with your doctor.