Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) indicates what health issues in the body?
Sep 14, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Weimin
Introduction
In general, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) refers to glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase. Elevated levels of AST may indicate the presence of medical conditions such as fatty liver, cholecystitis, cirrhosis, pericarditis, or acute myocardial infarction. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Additionally, other conditions such as viral hepatitis or liver cancer may also be possible. If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, they should promptly seek medical attention at a hospital.
Under normal circumstances, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is commonly referred to as glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase. Elevated AST levels may indicate the presence of medical conditions such as fatty liver, cholecystitis, cirrhosis, pericarditis, or acute myocardial infarction. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Fatty Liver
In healthy individuals, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and AST levels in the liver remain within the normal range. However, patients with fatty liver disease may experience liver cell damage, leading to the release of ALT and AST from damaged hepatocytes into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated serum transaminase levels. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as orlistat capsules or irbesartan tablets for treatment.
2. Cholecystitis
Since the gallbladder is located directly beneath the liver, cholecystitis may affect liver function and lead to increased AST levels. Under medical guidance, patients may be treated with medications such as dl-anisodamine tablets or atropine sulfate tablets.
3. Cirrhosis
In patients with cirrhosis, inadequate rest, excessive fatigue, irregular lifestyle habits, or chronic sleep deprivation can result in elevated AST levels during liver function tests. Under medical supervision, treatment may include medications such as diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules or ursodeoxycholic acid capsules.
4. Pericarditis
Pericarditis refers to acute inflammatory reactions and fluid accumulation in the pericardium caused by factors such as bacterial or viral infections, autoimmune responses, physical or chemical stimuli, followed by chronic changes including adhesions, thickening, constriction, or calcification of the pericardium. Patients with pericarditis may also present with elevated AST levels upon examination. Under medical guidance, treatment may involve medications such as rifampicin tablets or isoniazid tablets.
5. Acute Myocardial Infarction
Acute myocardial infarction causes necrosis of cardiac muscle cells, leading to the release of AST and ALT into the bloodstream, thereby increasing their serum levels. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets or ticagrelor tablets for treatment.
In addition to the above, other possible conditions include viral hepatitis and liver cancer. If patients experience any symptoms of discomfort, it is recommended that they seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
