Does elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) require treatment?
Disease description:
Today, during my routine physical examination at the hospital, I found that my aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level was slightly elevated. Do I need treatment?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Huang Wenxiang
Whether elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) requires treatment depends on the underlying cause. If the elevation is transient—due to factors such as sleep deprivation, alcohol consumption, or intense physical exercise—no specific treatment is typically necessary; regular monitoring of liver function suffices. However, if the elevation results from hepatobiliary disorders—such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, or hepatitis—treatment with hepatoprotective and enzyme-lowering medications may be warranted under a physician’s guidance. Commonly used agents include glycyrrhizinic acid and schisandrin C.
