The risks of elevated aspartate aminotransferase
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
Hepatitis: Patients with various acute and chronic hepatitis may have elevated AST (aspartate aminotransferase), especially those with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, in whom AST is often higher than ALT. In patients with myocardial injury, such as acute myocarditis, AST can be markedly elevated. Additionally, AST levels may significantly increase in patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), is a key parameter in liver function tests and cardiac enzyme panels. Elevated AST levels detected during testing may indicate damage to either the heart or the liver. What are the potential risks associated with elevated AST?
Risks Associated with Elevated AST
Elevated aspartate aminotransferase itself is not inherently more harmful, but rather serves as an important clinical signal—since AST is present in multiple organs, most abundantly in the liver, and also in cardiac and skeletal muscle cells. Increased AST levels may suggest the following conditions:
Hepatitis: AST levels may rise in patients with various acute or chronic hepatitis conditions. In particular, patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis often exhibit AST levels higher than alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. In patients with myocardial injury—for example, those with acute myocarditis—AST levels can become markedly elevated. Additionally, AST levels may significantly increase in patients experiencing acute myocardial infarction.
When skeletal muscle is injured—as in rhabdomyolysis—AST levels may also rise substantially. Moreover, children with progressive muscular dystrophy may show significantly elevated AST levels. In summary, elevated AST per se poses minimal direct harm; however, it serves as a critical indicator of organ damage. Therefore, further diagnostic evaluation is essential to identify the specific affected organ(s). In daily life, adopting a healthy lifestyle—including avoiding chronic sleep deprivation and excessive strenuous exercise—is strongly recommended. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
