AST
LiverNormal range
10–40 U/L (values vary by lab)
☎ When to call
Transaminases in the thousands, or rising LFTs with confusion (hepatic encephalopathy) — call the provider.
What you do
- AST > ALT ~2:1 suggests alcohol; ALT > AST suggests viral/NAFLD
- Numbers in the thousands: think acetaminophen or ischemia — check the med history TODAY
Causes of HIGH ast
Causes of LOW ast
Source: Pagana, Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, 7th ed.Reference only — verify against your facility's policy.
