What does it mean when aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels are elevated?
Disease description:
My mother-in-law isn’t feeling well, so she went to the hospital for a check-up. The test results showed elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST). What does elevated AST mean?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shengqiang
Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels primarily indicate damage to cells in organs such as the kidneys, heart, and liver. Additionally, certain diseases—including viral hepatitis, myocarditis, and nephritis—can also cause AST elevation. It is recommended to undergo specific diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
