AST / ALT Aspartate Transaminase / Alanine Transaminase
Also Known As
Test Parameters Included
- Serum AST (Aspartate Transaminase) Concentration (U/L)
- Serum ALT (Alanine Transaminase) Concentration (U/L)
- Pathologist Clinical Biochemistry Remark - AST/ALT ratio and hepatocellular injury assessment mapped against age/sex reference intervals
Department
Methodology
Sample Required
Preparation
Schedule Report
24 Hours
Emergency Report
Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AST and ALT?
ALT is more specific to the liver, while AST is found in the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys. Elevated ALT typically indicates liver-specific damage, whereas AST elevation can also occur with muscle injury.
Is fasting required for AST/ALT test?
Fasting is not strictly required but may be recommended for 8-12 hours to avoid lipemic interference and ensure accurate results, especially if paired with other fasting tests.
What do high AST and ALT levels indicate?
Elevated levels suggest liver cell damage or inflammation, commonly seen in hepatitis, fatty liver disease, alcohol-related liver injury, or medication-induced liver stress. The AST/ALT ratio helps differentiate causes.
How is the AST/ALT ratio interpreted?
An AST/ALT ratio greater than 2:1 often suggests alcoholic liver disease, while a ratio less than 1 is typical of viral hepatitis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Your pathologist will correlate this with clinical findings.
Can exercise raise AST levels?
Yes, intense physical exercise can cause transient AST elevation due to muscle breakdown. ALT is less affected by exercise, making it a more reliable liver-specific marker in such cases.
How to access my report?
Verified PDF report available within 24 hours via www.drpatholab.in or WhatsApp/Email.
Test Description
Test Code
A111
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