Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST/SGOT)
Also known as: Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase, SGOT, Transaminases
Use
A wide range of disease entities alters AST (SGOT), with origin from many organs. When an increased AST is from the liver, it is more likely to relate to disease of the hepatocyte. Other enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase and GT, are more sensitive indicators of biliary obstruction.
Special Instructions
Specimen should be separated from cells within 45 minutes of collection to ensure accurate results. It is important to maintain the specimen at room temperature until processing. The test uses serum (preferred) or plasma from a red-top, gel-barrier, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube.
Limitations
Limitations of the AST test include its non-specificity; elevated AST levels can arise from various conditions affecting organs other than the liver, such as the heart or muscles. Other enzymes like alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) may provide more sensitive indications of biliary obstruction. The presence of macroenzyme variants can cause unexplained elevations of AST levels, and certain drugs can also falsely elevate AST levels. Additionally, the interpretation of AST must often be done in combination with ALT and other liver function tests to provide a more comprehensive assessment of liver health.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1920-8
- 1920-8
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.7 mL
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; improper labeling
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |