If asthma is higher than normal, treatment. Levels of alt and ast in the blood, norms and causes of violations

To make a diagnosis, sometimes it is not necessary to carry out a complete examination of the patient’s body. Quite often it is enough to take one or more tests. To diagnose a patient, it is sometimes recommended to perform only a biochemical blood test, which can be used to determine the amount and nature of liver cytolysis enzymes. An AST biochemical blood test makes it possible to identify a number of serious diseases that can greatly complicate a person’s life.

AST is an enzyme found in cells whose function is to catalyze the conversion of oxaloacetate to aspartame. AST is a compound found in heart, liver and kidney tissue. In addition, the content of this substance was found in the cells of striated skeletal muscles and in the cells of nervous tissue.

The AST enzyme is an aspartate aminotransferase, which is an active participant in the metabolism of amino acids in the body. The compound enters the bloodstream only in cases of damage or destruction of cells during the development of any disease or injury to organ tissue.

In addition to AST, in the process of conducting a biochemical analysis of the content of enzymes in the bloodstream, the content of a compound such as ALT is determined.

The abbreviation ALT denotes the presence of an enzymatic liver protein - alanine aminotransferase, which is a catalyst protein in processes directly related to the metabolism of amino acids in the body. The compound in question has maximum activity in the cellular structures of liver and kidney tissue. In the tissues of the heart and striated muscles, this enzyme is present in small quantities.

Due to the fact that ALT is a purely cell-based enzyme, its amount in the bloodstream is quite small.

What does ALT and AST analysis show?

Most often, to determine the causes of the disease and make a correct diagnosis, it is enough to conduct an analysis exclusively for AST or ALT. Interpretation of biochemical analysis in the case when the norm of enzyme content is exceeded indicates the presence in the body of processes associated with damage to certain areas of the liver. Liver damage in this case can be quite varied. These could be the following processes:

• damage to liver cells as a result of alcohol or drug poisoning;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• liver damage as a result of exposure to viral hepatitis pathogens.

In addition to the above factors, increased rate AST and ALT are observed as a result of exposure of the body to excessive physical activity, mechanical or ischemic injury to body tissues, and in the presence of severe burns.

Determination of enzyme content is carried out using biochemical research methods. In order for the data for decoding to be as reliable as possible, blood during biochemical analysis should be donated to morning time. Until blood is collected for analysis, it is forbidden to eat food, since blood must be donated only on an empty stomach. Material for laboratory biochemical research is collected from the patient’s ulnar vein.

Biochemical blood test: interpretation, norm and deviation from it

In order to obtain accurate results of biochemical analysis for enzyme content, decoding must be carried out exclusively by an experienced, highly qualified specialist. The amount of each enzyme contained in the blood corresponds to its specific concentration. The blood level of ALT ranges from 31 units/l to 41 units/l, depending on the gender of the patient. The norm for women corresponds to an ALT content in an amount lower than that of men. To obtain accurate results, the ratio of the degree of activity of each enzyme is determined. An increase in the coefficient may indicate the emergence and development in the patient’s body of prerequisites for myocardial infarction, and if this indicator decreases, the development of infectious hepatitis in the body.

Since aminotransferases have different tissue specializations (each of these enzymes is concentrated in a certain type of tissue), a deviation from the norm in the content of one or another enzyme almost instantly signals the presence of diseases associated with certain organs in which the maximum localization of ALT and AST is observed. The interpretation of the analysis can be used as a factor in diagnosing the condition of the heart muscle (myocardium) and abnormalities in the functioning of the liver tissue. In cases where the level of enzyme content is increased, there is a suspicion of the presence of any problems in the functioning of certain organs in the body.

In the process of death and destruction of tissue cells that make up the organ, enzymes are released into the bloodstream. The concentration of substances increases, which is determined by the blood test and subsequent interpretation of the results. An AST enzyme level exceeded by 2 or more times can reliably confirm the presence in the patient’s body of prerequisites for the occurrence of a myocardial infarction attack.

In cases where ALT in the blood is elevated, the body usually experiences the development of infectious hepatitis during its incubation period.

If the normal levels of AST and ALT are reduced, a deficiency of B vitamin (hyridoxine) can be stated. However, it is worth remembering that a lack of hyridoxine can be caused not only by pathological changes in the body, but also by the process of a woman bearing a child.

What is the reason for the deviation from the norm of ALT and AST?

The activity of ALT in the blood is directly dependent on the degree and severity of viral hepatitis. The more complex the situation in the body with the development of the disease, the higher the level of ALT activity in the blood. In particularly severe cases, a blood test may show ALT activity that is 5 or more times higher than normal. The use of a biochemical blood test will help identify the disease at the very initial stage of development in the patient’s body, i.e. at the moment when the course of the disease passes without clearly defined symptoms. A blood test of AST and ALT makes it possible to accurately determine the patient’s condition and the complexity of the course of a particular disease.

An increased level of ALT and AST in the blood during analysis may occur in the case of diseases such as:

• cirrhosis of the liver;
• liver cancer;
• various forms of hepatitis,
• damage to the liver tissue as a result of toxic and drug poisoning.

In addition, deviations from the norm can cause diseases such as:

• pancreatitis;
• heart failure or myocardial infarction;
• getting burns over large areas of the body;
• necrosis of skeletal tissue;
• shock states of various nature.

A decrease in ALT below normal is observed when there is a deficiency of vitamin B6 in the patient’s body, as well as when liver tissue is damaged as a result of extensive necrosis. As a rule, a decrease in ALT is observed due to the death and destruction of the cells that make up the liver tissue and produce ALT.

AST is one of the most important diagnostic indicators of the body’s condition. A deviation of its content in the bloodstream from the norm indicates the development of organ damage in the body as a result of the development of certain diseases. Normalization of the AST content in the blood occurs automatically after the influence of the pathological process on the affected organ is eliminated.

With timely drug intervention and adequate therapeutic measures, the AST indicator returns to normal within 30-40 days after the end of the course of treatment. Providing timely treatment of the disease reveals simultaneous positive dynamics in the content of AST in the blood. If there is a rapid drop in the enzyme content in the bloodstream with simultaneous progression of hyperbilirubinemia, the prognosis for the development of the disease turns out to be negative and requires a corresponding change in the treatment method. A blood test demonstrates decreased levels of AST in the bloodstream due to severe illness, liver rupture, or vitamin B6 deficiency.

An increase in AST occurs with injury to striated skeletal muscles, heat stroke, and also in cases of cardiac surgery in the body.

To ensure that AST and ALT levels remain within normal limits, the patient needs to avoid long-term use of various medicines, which can cause destruction of liver tissue or disruption of the functioning of liver cells. If this cannot be done due to the presence of a chronic disease in the body, then blood tests for AST and ALT should be performed as regularly as possible. This must be done to prevent the development in the body of more serious disorders associated with drug-induced liver poisoning.

The article is based on the findings of 25 scientific studies

The article cites the authors of the studies:

• Korea Institute of Science and Technology, South Korea
• Department of Biochemistry, medical college Belgaum, India
• Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University, USA
• Center for Genomic Medicine, Kyoto University, Japan
• Department of Gastroenterology, Oregon Health Sciences University, USA
• and other authors.

To view the research, go to links in the text

What is AST

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST,AST) – designed in the body to accelerate chemical reactions. This enzyme is found inside the cells that make up the liver and heart, but is also present in red blood cells (erythrocytes), muscle tissue, the pancreas and the kidneys. AST can be found in very small amounts in the blood outside of cells. [ , , ]

AST is very similar to ALT (alanine transaminase), because both of these enzymes are contained in the cells of the liver parenchyma. The only difference is that ALT is mainly found in the liver, while AST is also present in the cells of other tissues of the body. Therefore, ALT is thought to be more specific for detecting inflammation in the liver, while AST may indicate disease not only of the liver, but also of heart disease, acute pancreatitis, hemolytic anemia, severe burns, kidney disease, musculoskeletal disease, or trauma ( wounds). [ , ]

AST speeds up a chemical reaction in cells that is necessary for metabolism. This chemical reaction occurs mainly in liver, where one of the end products of this metabolism, glutamate, is redirected to the kidneys to be excreted in the urine.

AST functions

Aspartate aminotransferase is one of the key enzymes that catalyzes the reversible transfer of the α-amino group between aspartate and glutamate and, as such, is an important enzyme in amino acid metabolism.

At the macro level, this transfer path affects general metabolism of amino acids and fats(fatty acids). It also plays a partial role in detoxification (urea cycle) and gluconeogenesis. [ , ]

At the micro level, a direct chemical reaction that AST accelerates to convert an amino acid (aspartate) and acid (alpha-ketoglutarate) into another acid (oxaloacetate) and amino acid (glutamate). This conversion is vital for other metabolic processes such as the urea cycle, the glucose cycle and breakdown (glycolysis). [ , ]

Normal AST levels

A healthy AST blood level ranges from 10 to 35 U/l. The upper limit of AST varies slightly among research laboratories. [ , ]

The following AST values ​​are considered reference (average):

• For men 0 – 41 U/l
• For women 0 – 31 U/l

Typically, doctors look at elevated and decreased AST test values, and do not pay attention if the results are within the reference range. But even if the AST test is in the “normal” range, it may indicate some problems in the body.

Note. Adequate levels help protect the liver from metabolic, inflammatory and fibrotic damage.

AST/ALT and ALT/AST ratios, Ritis coefficient

Relationship between indicators ALT/AST can be used as a marker for identification. Studies involving 998 normal (BMI< 25) и 344 полных (ИМТ >25) Japanese adults found that the ratio ALT/AST is a reliable marker for predicting the development and severity of insulin resistance in people of normal weight. In people with a healthy effect of insulin on cells, the ratio coefficient ALT/AST was within 0.82, and in overweight (or obese) people this coefficient increased to 1.02 and higher.

Another retrospective study examined the relationship AST/ALT as a diagnostic marker in 252 patients with chronic liver diseases. Scientists have found this ratio to be a useful and quick way diagnosis of liver diseases. Progressive liver disease was associated with an increase in this ratio (along with an increase in AST itself).

Ritis coefficient

The Ritis coefficient is the AST/ALT ratio (the ratio of the concentration of these enzymes in the blood), which indicates possible heart or liver disease. It is believed that during myocardial infarction, AST increases 8-10 times, and ALT increases 1.5-2 times. With liver hepatitis, ALT increases 8-10 times, and AST increases 2-4 times.

An AST/ALT ratio of about 1.33 is considered normal. with a possible range of 0.91 – 1.75, which is typical for healthy people.

If the Ritis coefficient exceeds the number 2, together with an increase in AST values, then we can talk about possible cardiovascular problems, although a similar increase in AST also occurs with hyperthyroidism, Wilson's disease and liver fibrosis. At the same time, if the Ritis number is more than 2, alcoholic liver disease can be considered, especially if GGT (gamma-glutamyltransferase) is elevated.

If this Ritis coefficient is less than 1, then this more indicates possible problems in the liver, especially due to viral hepatitis.

AST and disease analysis

In order for the doctor to prescribe AST analysis There must be some symptoms of liver disease, for example:

• fatigue
• weakness
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomit
• abdominal swelling
• yellow skin or eyes
• tight urine
• severe itching of the skin
• abdominal pain

Additionally, your doctor may prescribe AST analysis and in case of factors that can lead to liver problems, for example:

• infection with hepatitis viruses
• alcohol or drug use
• family history of liver disease
• diabetes
• obesity or overweight

AST levels may become abnormal(increase or decrease) if the following diseases occur:

• inflammation of the pancreas or pancreatitis
• hemochromatosis
• infections like mononucleosis
• gallbladder diseases
• heatstroke
• blood diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma
• amyloidosis

In a clinical study of 56 patients with very high AST levels (3,000 U/L or higher), the medical records of these people were reviewed and additional tests were performed. As a result, 40 patients (out of 56) were diagnosed with various liver diseases. It was concluded that extremely high levels of AST are most often characteristic of liver diseases.

The relationship between risk factors (elevated AST levels) and heart disease was studied in 610 patients with varying degrees of heart disease. Of these, 350 patients with diagnosed heart disease had higher mean AST levels than 260 healthy patients. It was concluded that elevated AST levels may be used as a marker to predict the degree of heart disease.

The AST content test is also used to diagnose pregnancy complications, in particular to predict premature rupture of the fetal membrane. One study looked at the health of 148 women during the same phase of pregnancy. Of these women, 74 had elevated mean AST levels compared to healthy values. It was concluded that measurement of AST activity in vaginal fluid can be used as a reliable test for diagnosing pregnancy complications.

Overexposure to the trace element chromium is known to contribute to the development of many diseases such as cancer, ulcers and problems with various organs. A study on chromium-treated rats found increased AST production when exposed to chromium. As a result, it was concluded that toxic effects, including chromium, promote the growth of AST, and the test for this enzyme itself can be used as a marker of toxic damage to the body.

How to increase AST

Generally, low levels AST levels in the blood are normal and should not be a cause for concern. Shortage vitamin B6 can lead to lower AST values, so if you detect a decrease in this enzyme, you should also find out your vitamin B6 level.

Older people may be particularly susceptible to low AST levels, as they are often at increased risk of malnutrition. Vitamin B6 supplements tend to help increase AST in older patients.

High AST level

One of the main signs of existing health problems is elevated AST levels ( above 40 U/l). There are a number of physiological conditions and diseases that can lead to elevated AST levels, including:

• Rhabdomyolysis: it is a process of breakdown of the body's muscles that causes large volumes of AST to be released from the muscles. In addition, this process causes the release of protein (myoglobin), which is difficult for the liver to utilize. This situation leads to the production of increased amounts of AST, which increases the value of AST in the blood. Rhabdomyolysis can occur during strenuous exercise. [ , ]

• Viral and alcoholic hepatitis is one of the main reasons for the increase in AST in the body. Inflammation of the liver increases the production of AST, and its significant increase in the blood helps to diagnose hepatitis. Long-term alcohol use (alcoholism) can also increase AST. [ , ]

• Fatty liver also leads to increased AST levels, for example, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (). Excessive alcohol consumption, together with obesity or separately, can lead to the development of liver steatosis (fatty infiltration, also called liver hepatosis).

• Age (aging). A study of 602 healthy people found an age-related increase in mean ALT (alanine aminotransferase) levels. This increase in ALT with age was also associated with an increase in AST values. It is believed that AST scores may increase from .

• Floor. A study of adults in a specific region of China examined the course of metabolic syndrome. Although this was not the main conclusion of this scientific work, but the scientists noticed that AST levels were higher in men than in women.

• Medicines. Some medications, such as painkillers, chemotherapy drugs, and statins (to lower blood pressure), may increase AST levels. This increase in AST was generally associated with liver stress caused by long-term use or too much medication. [ , , ]

• Other diseases which may be accompanied by an increase in AST: myocardial infarction, acute pancreatitis, acute hemolytic anemia, acute kidney disease, dermatomyositis, trauma or wounds.

How to reduce AST

First of all, it is necessary to determine the cause of the increase in AST in order to act directly on the disease itself. Without treating the cause of elevated AST levels, other steps may not be as effective or significant.

There are several methods and substances that help reduce AST. Before taking such substances, you should consult your doctor to determine possible side effects and interactions with medications taken.

Licorice

The effectiveness of licorice in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease was evaluated in a clinical double-randomized study with 66 patients. When receiving licorice for 2 months, the average AST levels in patients decreased significantly. A similar reduction was not observed in those patients who did not receive licorice.

Green tea

In another study (clinical, double-blind, randomized), 80 participants with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NFA) were given green tea for 12 weeks. At the end of this period, patients receiving green tea showed a significant decrease in AST levels.

Caffeine

The study involved 177 patients with liver disease who filled out a questionnaire describing their diet, including foods containing caffeine. This allowed scientists to evaluate the relationship between liver disease and caffeine obtained from food. They found that patients with more caffeine in their diet had lower AST levels. Caffeine was able to reduce elevated AST levels.

Milk thistle

A special supplement from the milk thistle plant meal was prescribed to 34 patients with hepatitis C (open-label controlled trial) and 51 patients with type 2 diabetes (clinical double-blind controlled trial), which led to a decrease in AST levels. [, , ]

Probiotics

A study involving 66 adults with alcoholic psychosis received probiotics for 5 days. Those patients who received these probiotics showed a significant decrease in AST levels.

TUDCA

Taursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) is a safe drug for short-term restoration of liver enzymes. In a pilot study of 23 patients with liver disease, daily TUDCA for 6 months reduced elevated AST levels in these individuals.

Turmeric

This substance may also help reduce elevated AST levels. An experiment with rats that were given liver lesions with significantly elevated AST levels showed that AST levels significantly decreased within 4 days. Turmeric may be helpful in reducing higher level AST.

Ganoderma lucidum

This mushroom can also be found under the following names - Varnished tinder fungus, or Ganoderma lacquered, or Lingzhi, or Reishi. In a study on mice with liver damage, it was used liquid extract this mushroom. As a result of treatment, AST levels were significantly reduced.

Dill

In one study, dill extract and tablets were administered to hamsters with high cholesterol levels, which resulted in a significant reduction in AST values.

Alpha lipoic acid

It has been shown in rats that alpha lipoic acid may be useful in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (). It helped reduce levels of liver enzymes, including AST. [, ]

N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​(NAC)

In the experiment, rats' livers were damaged with a chemical, which led to a strong increase in AST levels. When N-acetyl-L-cysteine ​​(NAC) was added to the diet, the increased AST production decreased to normal levels.

Curcumin And capsaicin

When used together, capsaicin shows a synergistic effect. A study in rats with induced liver disease demonstrated that the use of curcumin together with capsaicin significantly reduced AST levels, and the use of these substances together was much more effective than their separate use. In addition, this mixture also reduced the levels of (bad cholesterol). [The information on this site has not been evaluated by any medical organization. We do not seek to diagnose or treat any disease. The information on the site is provided for educational purposes only. You should consult your physician before acting on information from this site, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any medical condition.

Aspartate aminotransferase is a necessary enzyme for the proper metabolism of amino acids. An increase in AST activity is a consequence of pathological changes in the body. If aspartate aminotransferase is elevated, this indicates the onset of pathological changes, so timely detection will make it more likely to avoid the consequences of diseases.

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, ASAT, AST) is an enzyme found in every cell of the body; it takes part in the metabolism of vital amino acids. The largest amounts are located in the heart, liver, muscles and kidneys. The AST enzyme belongs to the class of transaminases. The synthesis of aspartate aminotransferase occurs intracellularly, only a small part enters the blood.

The indicator in a blood test is used to diagnose the myocardium of the heart and liver. Since in a healthy person, AST is located to a greater extent in the tissues, and enters the blood only when the integrity of the cells is violated, an increased indicator in the analysis will immediately tell in which organs changes are occurring.

Blood is drawn from a vein in a specialized biochemical laboratory. The analysis must be taken on an empty stomach, for a reliable result, mainly in the morning. Before the study, only drinking water (not sweet, without gases) is allowed. If at least 8 hours have not passed since the last meal before the test, the result may be unreliable. Normal blood values ​​suggest low levels of aspartate aminotransferase.

The following standards are distinguished:

• Children of the first year of life – 27-70 units/l.
• 1-4 years – up to 59 units/l.
• 5-13 years – up to 48 units/l.
• 13-16 years – up to 29 units/l.
• Men - up to 41 units/l.
• Women - up to 31 units/l.
• In pregnant women, AtAS is reduced by approximately 10%.

ATC activity is lower in women than in men. During pregnancy, the indicator should be lowered. Indications for the study of ATC are liver pathologies, muscle damage, examination for cardiac abnormalities, including myocardial infarction. Indications for analysis also include: jaundice, hepatitis, alcoholism, oncology, mononucleosis, endocrine pathology, autoimmune diseases, various poisonings and intoxications, bilirubin metabolism disorders, kidney damage, cholelithiasis, chronic pancreatitis, chest trauma with suspected heart contusion , assessment of the dynamics of treatment of heart diseases, purulent sepsis and diabetes.

Diseases with high rates

A value above normal in the analysis indicates the course of acute or chronic pathologies, which are accompanied by necrosis (death of cells, parts of tissue).

If AST is elevated:

• The highest AST values ​​are found in viral and toxic hepatitis, with extensive liver necrosis.
• With myocardial infarction, the value can increase up to 100 times (3000 units/l). It can also occur during heart surgery.
• Trauma with liver damage, metastases.
• Pancreatitis.
• The value can rise to 300 units/l in mild forms of hepatitis and liver cirrhosis.
• A sharp increase and decrease in AST occurs with obstruction of the biliary tract.
• Skeletal muscle injuries, myopathies.
• Fatty and alcoholic hepatosis.
• Heart injuries.
• Angina pectoris.
• An isolated increase in AST is a consequence of viral hepatitis or an infectious disease.

Additional examination is required to make a diagnosis. Only a doctor can prescribe the necessary tests and make a diagnosis. It is important to know that high aspartate aminotransferase levels can be affected by factors other than disease.

Reasons for deviation of the analysis from the norm

An elevated test result does not always mean the presence of pathology. If the level is increased slightly (not several dozen times), then there is no reason to worry about terrible diagnoses. Under certain conditions and the use of certain medications, AST levels may increase.

Medications include: antibiotics, valerian and echinacea, anabolic steroids, aminosalicylic acid, large amounts of vitamin A. This means that if you use any medications, you must inform your doctor about this, and if possible, stop them.

Excessive physical activity can shift the analysis value upward. This means that you need to give them up at least 24 hours before donating blood. Alcohol consumption and smoking also have an effect (it is not recommended to smoke at least half an hour before the test). The level of AST can increase with such physical abnormalities as: burns, heat strokes, mushroom and lead poisoning, allergic reactions, and various injuries.

Based on the presence of certain symptoms, one can suspect an increase in aspartate aminotransferase in the body. These include: insomnia, swelling, periodic nausea, increased nervousness, body weakness, itching, dark urine, weight loss and lack of appetite, stool discoloration, yellow spots on the skin, fever.

Of course, external manifestations depend on the pathology and are very individual. But if several symptoms are noted, then you need to pay attention to them and consult a doctor. Timely detection of diseases at an early stage will help get rid of the disease much more effectively and quickly.

There are several stages of abnormal aspartate aminotransferase:

• The first stage is moderate. The AST enzyme indicator was exceeded no more than 5 times. Causes may include taking medications, excessive exercise, or obesity.
• The second stage is an average increase in AST, approximately 10 times higher than normal. The most common cause is myocardial infarction and liver cirrhosis. The same can happen with autoimmune pathologies and muscular dystrophy.
• The third stage is severe, an increase of 10 times or more. Talks about malignant tumors and viral hepatitis.

Stage 3 indicates serious damage to the organ and doctors often give disappointing prognoses.

Normalization of AST levels

Because high level enzyme is a consequence of organ pathologies, it is necessary to conduct additional examinations and find out the cause of the disease. After diagnosis, the doctor prescribes appropriate treatment. When the cause is eliminated, the indicator will return to normal.

You can independently improve the AST value only with diet and lifestyle correction, in addition to the main one. drug treatment. The first and most important thing is to limit your alcohol consumption. If your body is overweight, you need to lose it. For people with high AST, it is important to eliminate fatty foods from their diet. Animal fats significantly overload the liver, which increases the AST enzyme (pork, beef, lamb, dairy products, lard, margarine). You should prefer skim milk and its derivatives; in terms of meat, you should prefer poultry, fish and rabbit dishes.

It is important to eat a diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Fresh vegetables and fruits will help fight toxins. 2 liters of clean water a day will reduce the load on the liver and help it work properly.

Regular physical activity will help burn carbohydrates, which will relieve the body. If there are contraindications for vigorous activity, walking in the fresh air will also be useful, because... improve blood circulation, which provides adequate nutrition to the organs.

Aspartate aminotransferase is a vital enzyme, but its value should not exceed the norm. Successful treatment of diseases, the consequence of which is a high AST blood test value, largely depends on the patient’s timely visit to the doctor. This means that if unfavorable symptoms are detected, you need to contact a medical institution for examination and diagnosis.

The process of cell death is associated with the following reasons: trauma, oncology, exhaustion, heavy physical activity, stress, in this case the AST enzyme leaves the dead cells and enters the blood. This process leads to the fact that the enzyme noticeably increases its quantitative indicator (about 2-20 times) in human blood.

An increase in this indicator occurs with problems and functional deviations of the following organs:

• liver and gall bladder (liver cancer, various hepatitis, amoeboid infections, inflammation of the bile ducts);
• heart (coronary insufficiency, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, rheumatic carditis);
• skeletal muscles – injuries and dystrophy of muscle muscles;
• pancreas (phlegmon of retroperitoneal tissue, acute pancreatitis);
• infectious diseases (vasculitis, viral mononucleosis).

If the quantitative indicators of the enzyme increase, this may indicate that neighboring tissues have become involved in the pathological course of the disease. It is worth considering that in patients with angina and cirrhosis, the amount of AST does not go beyond the normal range.

AST and ALT

The causes of an increase in the enzyme in the blood can also be diseases of a number of organs (primarily the heart and liver). In this case, doctors are faced with the task of identifying the disease of which particular organ caused the change in the AST enzyme coefficient in the blood serum.

Moving on to the AlAT enzyme, it can be noted that the analysis of biomaterial to identify the quantitative coefficient of AlAt is carried out in medical institutions in order to diagnose diseases developing in the liver, bile ducts, skeletal muscles, as well as to identify diseases of the heart muscle.

A diagnostician can give a referral to donate blood to determine the ALT enzyme if he wants to get a more complete diagnostic picture and identify certain disorders in the human body. This referral is usually given if the doctor wants to know about the effect of medications or other toxic drugs on the liver. Hepatitis can also be an important reason to take ALT. The indicators of this enzyme reflect the degree of liver damage in the human body. Besides, this analysis V mandatory taken from blood donors.

You can find out reasons for concern about your health and the need to get tested for ALT from your doctor or if you find one of the following symptoms:

• general malaise;
• attacks of nausea or vomiting;
• weakened appetite;
• change in urine color;
• yellowing of the skin;
• change in stool color;
• regular abdominal pain, as well as bloating.

In order to get the most accurate result of an ALT test, you need to properly prepare your body. Biomaterial, in this case blood, is donated early in the morning on an empty stomach. The last meal before the analysis should take place no later than 8 hours. Blood is taken from a vein.

The ALT level may be exceeded in the following cases:

• unbalanced diet;
• viral infections;
• pancreatitis in the acute stage;
• burns of large areas of skin;
• state of shock;
• mononucleosis;
• problems of the hematopoietic system;
• muscular dystrophy.

Antisperm antibodies in women

IN female body, just like in men, there are natural mechanisms that prevent the immune response towards male sperm:

• during the period of ovulation, the level of T-helpers decreases, while the number of T-suppressors increases;
• the amount of immunoglobulins decreases;
• the concentration of components of the complement system decreases;

In addition, the sperm itself has a number of properties that protect sperm from the woman’s immune system, and in particular prostaglandins and immunoglobulin-binding factor. Moreover, it is believed that in the fallopian tubes Only a small part of the sperm penetrates. They are immunologically different from most sperm, which die and thereby “distract” the immune system.

Some reasons for the production of antisperm antibodies in the female body:

• use of chemical methods of contraception;
• high concentration of leukocytes, both in the vagina and in sperm;
• entry into the vagina of sperm coated with antisperm antibodies that were formed in the male body;
• entry of sperm into the stomach or rectum during oral and anal sex;
• entry of a large number of sperm into the abdominal cavity due to irrationally performed artificial insemination;
• multiple IVF attempts;
• coagulation of cervical erosion;

Detection of antisperm antibodies

Indications:

• changes in the spermogram: agglutination, aggregation, decreased sperm motility, decreased viability;
• changes in the postcoital test: insufficient number of sperm in the cervical mucus, “trembling” of sperm, their low motility; negative test;
• failures in IVF attempts;
• infertility in a married couple with normal standard examination results;
• negative cervical fluid-sperm interaction test;
• preparation for IVF;

In men, in most cases, a search is performed for antisperm antibodies on the surface of sperm (MAR test). A blood test for ASAT in men is performed for azoospermia. In women, the search for antisperm antibodies should be carried out both in the blood and in the cervical mucus.

Detection methods:

• MAR test;
• Postcoital test;
• Immunobead test;
• Latex agglutination test;
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent method (ELISA).

• barrier contraception for up to 6 months;
• prescription of agents that reduce the viscosity of cervical fluid;
• elimination of identified factors that could contribute to the production of antisperm antibodies in both men and women.

If conservative therapy does not lead to a positive effect (conception), artificial insemination or IVF is performed. If these methods are ineffective, ICSI is performed.

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Norm AsAt and AlAt in a biochemical blood test

The concentrations of these enzymes change over time, which is normal in childhood. For example, infants have higher levels than adults due to the nature of the birth period. Due to the massive release of red blood cells into the blood and their subsequent transformation into bilirubin, jaundice, characteristic of newborns, develops and, accordingly, an increase in the amount of ALT.

For AsAt and AlAt, the norms for children of different ages and adults can be found in the table:

As can be seen from the table, normal indicators constantly fluctuate in childhood and adolescence, and from the age of 12 they also differ according to the gender of the subject. In addition, a slight increase in ALT levels is normal in women in the blood during pregnancy. early stages. However, in the last trimester, an increase in enzyme concentration indicates gestosis, which threatens the health of the mother and fetus.

Aspartate aminotransferase is also determined in different quantities according to gender and age. In adult men, the upper limit of normal is 37 units per liter, in women - 31. The highest level is observed in children in the first days of life (up to 97 units / l), by one year it decreases to 82, and by six - to 36. For adolescents 12 -17 years old are considered normal values ​​not exceeding 29 and 25 U/l for boys and girls, respectively.

How is laboratory research carried out?

To conduct a laboratory test biological material patient, a specialist takes a venous blood sample from him. The patient should come to the medical facility in the morning on an empty stomach. In the process of conducting research, laboratory technicians will take into account the normal value of transaminases and other standards approved by the relevant standards:

In newborns, the enzyme level should fluctuate in the range of 25U/l-75U/l. If the enzyme level is increased, this will indicate the development of inflammatory or pathological processes.

Children whose age ranges from 1-18 years should normally have a reading of 15U/l-60U/l. The upper number, indicating the maximum permissible normal value, should alert parents and make an appointment for the child with a cardiologist.

In the female half of the population, an enzyme level in the range of 10 U/l-36 U/l will be considered normal. If the lower AST level in the blood is low, then women should make an appointment with a gastroenterologist.

In men, AST is normally slightly higher than in women, and ranges from 14 U/l to 20 U/l.

It is worth noting that for many people this indicator can increase significantly in the presence of the following provoking factors:

the body is given systematic physical activity, which greatly exhausts it;

while taking medications such as barbiturates, antibiotics, NSAIDs;

alcohol abuse;

taking vitamin A in excessive dosages.

Too high an enzyme level in the blood may indicate not only pathological processes in vital human organs. Such a jump can be provoked viral diseases. Also, an overestimated rate is present in people whose body is subject to systematic intoxication due to alcohol abuse, due to the breakdown of liver cells. In patients who take psychotropic drugs or narcotic drugs, laboratory blood tests will almost always reveal elevated AST. The highest levels of the enzyme, as a rule, indicate the progression of malignant processes in the patient’s body. A specialist who will decipher the tests will be able to assume that an irreversible process of metastasis has already started in his body.

If, during laboratory tests of the patient’s venous blood, minor deviations from the norm were identified, then most likely the cause of the increase in the enzyme was inflammatory processes. A not too high AST indicator may indicate the initial stage of development of pathological processes in different organs or systems.

What are AlAT and AST

Alanine aminotransferase, abbreviated ALT, is a cellular enzyme involved in nitrogen and energy metabolism, as well as in the synthesis of various amino acids. Alanine aminotransferase is present in all tissues of the body, but it is more concentrated in the tissues of the heart, liver and kidneys. ALT is predominantly localized in the cell cytoplasm.

Aspartate aminotransferase, abbreviated AsAT, is another enzyme involved in the synthesis of amino acids. Aspartate aminotransferase is also present in all tissues of the body. The largest amount of AST is found in the heart and skeletal muscles liver, lungs, kidneys and tissues of the nervous system. AST is concentrated not only in the cell cytoplasm, but also in mitochondria.

Both of these enzymes are an intracellular component, therefore, in the absence of pathologies, their content in the blood is quite small. In turn, an increase in the level of these enzymes promotes their transport from cells to the blood, which indicates massive destruction of cellular structures.

Selective tissue localization makes it possible to consider aminotransferases as marker enzymes: ALT for the liver, AST for the heart.

The indicators of both transferases have important diagnostic value. Thus, an ALT test is often prescribed for suspected liver damage of various origins.

And an AST test can also show cardiac pathologies that are not detected by an electrocardiogram (for example, myocardial infarction)

Thus, an ALT test is often prescribed for suspected liver damage of various origins. And an AST test can also show cardiac pathologies that are not detected by an electrocardiogram (for example, myocardial infarction).

If the AST value significantly exceeds the norm, then the so-called de Ritis coefficient is often calculated.

The de Ritis coefficient is the ratio of the proportions of both transferases in the blood, named after the Italian scientist Fernando de Ritis, who in 1957 first proposed its use for diagnosing liver damage.

By calculating the de Ritis coefficient, you can establish the etiology of liver damage, for example, viral, dystrophic or alcoholic, and together with the study of albumin content, you can also judge cardiac pathologies.

How to treat aspartate aminotransferase abnormalities

From the article written, we can conclude that completely different diseases and medications with different contents can contribute to the appearance of increased levels of aspartate aminotransferase chemical substances. Therefore, if the analysis revealed a deviation of aspartate aminotransferase from the norm, you should consult your doctor, who, after studying full story your illness, will be able to draw specific conclusions about the characteristics of your body and your predisposition to a number of diseases, both viral and chronic. Based on such data, it will be possible to prescribe a specific method for curing the disease.

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Meaning of Asat in dictionaries

Asat

–
Philosophical Dictionary
(Sanskrit.) A philosophical term meaning “non-being” or rather, non-existence. "Unfathomable nothingness." Sat, the unchanging, eternal, omnipresent, and the only real "Beingness" (but not Being) is mentioned as "born of Asad - born of Sat om." The unreal or Prakriti, the objective nature considered as an illusion. Nature, or the deceptive shadow of its one true essence.

Asatiani
–
Big Encyclopedic Dictionary

Georgiy Iraklievich (1914-77) - Georgian film director and cameraman, People's Artist of the USSR (1967). Documentary films: "Multi-story America" ​​(1961), "Paris... Paris" (1965), "In the Land of the Incas" (1966), "Light of Freedom" (1976), etc.

–
Psychological Dictionary

A variant of the psychotherapeutic method of hypnocatharsis. In a hypnotic state, with the help of a specially constructed suggestion, restoration and re-experience are achieved mental trauma which was the cause of neurosis. The reproduction of experiences is directed and controlled by the psychotherapist, and therapeutic suggestion is built in accordance with it.

Asatiani Method of Reproductive Experiences
–
Psychological Encyclopedia

Asatov
–
Dictionary of Russian surnames

ASADOV ASADULLIN ASADULIN ASADULIN, formed by the Russian suffix -ov from the male personal name Asad (Arabic ‘lion’, figuratively ‘hero, mighty’), common among the Muslim peoples of the Caucasus, Volga region, Central Asia etc. A phonetic version of the same name with deafening of the final consonant became the basis of the surname. (N). Comes from the Tatar-Muslim name Assad, modified ‘al-Somad’ - eternal. The famous poet Eduard Assadov emphasizes his origins from the Tatars. (ST) Possibly from the folk form Assad of the baptismal name Josaf - God gathered (Heb.) See Asaph. (E) Asadullin. From a compound Turkic name with the same base, where as the second component: Allah is Arabic. ‘god’, with the meaning ‘from God’. (E)

Asator
–
Philosophical Dictionary

(Scand.) Same as Thor. The god of thunder and lightning, the hero who received Mjolnir, the “thunderstorm hammer,” from its manufacturers, the dwarves. With him he defeats Alvin in a "battle of words", crushes the head of the giant Hrunhir and punishes Loki for his magic, destroys an entire race of giants in Thrymheim, and being a good and benevolent god, immediately erects milestones, sanctifies marriage bonds, blesses law and order, and, with his help, accomplishes every good and wonderful feat. God in the Eddas who is almost as great as Odin. (See Mjolnir and Thor's Hammer.)

Aspartate aminotransferase is elevated, what does this mean?

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme that is part of the cells of various human tissues, such as the liver, heart, muscle tissue, kidneys, pancreas, brain tissue, skeletal muscles, and spleen. This enzyme is involved in the metabolism of amino acids. The highest activity of AST is manifested in the liver and kidneys, less in the heart, skeletal muscles, and pancreas. Activity in men is slightly higher than activity in women.

Widely used in laboratory diagnostics of myocardial and liver damage.

Indications for prescribing a test:

• Examination and differential examination of myocardial infarction or other diseases of the heart muscle.
• Deviations of muscles and liver.
• Liver diseases.

Elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase are an indicator of serious diseases.

The level of aspartate aminotransferase is increased in diseases that result in the breakdown of tissues rich in this enzyme.

1. The highest values, exceeding the norm from 10 to 100 times, can be found in diseases accompanied by extensive liver necrosis, viral hepatitis, toxic hepatitis, and carbon tetrachloride poisoning. A sharp increase in AST can also occur in acute immediate form of viral hepatitis (more than 4000 U/l)
2. Promotion and rapid decline may occur due to obstruction of the extrahepatic biliary tract.
3. Quite a significant increase (more than 3000 U/l) can occur during acute myocardial infarction, during heart surgery, during septic conditions. In the case of myocardial infarction, these enzymes are released from the cells some time after the onset of the lesion. Maximum values ​​are detected after 48 hours, then return to normal within three to five days.
4. Also expressed increased values may occur with liver damage, liver metastases.
5. Moderately elevated values ​​are detected in mild forms of acute viral hepatitis. chronic liver diseases, such as chronic active hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis. In these diseases, AST rarely exceeds 300 U/l.
6. Angina pectoris.
7. Acute pancreatitis.
8. Liver cancer.
9. Acute rheumatic carditis.
10. Various skeletal muscle injuries and bruises..
11. Burns, heat strokes.
12. Pulmonary embolism.
13. Cholestasis, that is, stagnation of bile.
14. Myopathies.
15. Gangrene.
16. Fatty hepatosis.

Reduced level:

1. Under physiological conditions, for example during pregnancy, there may be lower values.
2. In pathological conditions. Muscular dystrophy. injuries, surgical interventions, intramuscular injections, cerebral infarction, local irradiation, hypothyroidism, eclampsia, acute pancreatitis.

Enhancing medications:

Medications that cause cholestasis (aminosalicylic acid, benzodiazepines, carbamazepine, anabolic steroids and others).

Medicines with hepatotoxic effects, for example, amiodarone, amitriptyline, chloramphenicol, diclofenac, imipramine, penicillins, clotrimazole, heparin, inhibitors, papaverine, indomethacin, oral contraceptives, salicylates, rifampicin, nicotinic acid, methyldopa, allopurinol and others.

Reducing medications:

Ascorbic acid, cyclosporine, simvastatin, penicillamine, metronidazole. ibuprofen, simvastatin, progesterone and others.

general description

Endogenous enzymes include aspartate aminotransferase; in the literature, for brevity, this substance is often abbreviated as ast (another abbreviation option is asat). The enzyme is mainly found in the heart muscle (myocardium) and liver tissues, a fairly large amount is found in the kidneys and skeletal muscles, and significantly less in the spleen, lungs and pancreas.

The enzyme aspartate aminotransferase acts as a catalyst; it accelerates the rate of biochemical reactions occurring in cells. The enzyme is necessary for the synthesis of glucose, the main source of energy.

The enzyme is synthesized intracellularly, so in healthy people it is contained in minimal quantities in the blood. But when organs are damaged and cells are destroyed, ast is released and can be detected in plasma using laboratory methods.

Based on the results obtained, one can judge the degree of damage to the organ. Thus, during myocardial infarction, the level of ast in the blood plasma will be higher, the larger the focus of necrosis.

In addition, it is advisable to carry out an analysis of ast content during the treatment of identified diseases. Based on the results of the study, one can judge the effectiveness of therapy and give a prognosis for recovery. With properly selected therapy, the enzyme level begins to decrease no later than on the third day after the start of the course. If this does not happen, then the treatment is ineffective.

How to lower ALT in the blood

If quantitative deviations of indicators from the norm have been identified, first of all it is necessary to exclude the influence of factors such as taking dietary supplements and alcohol, and excessive physical activity. A diet that includes too much fatty and “heavy” food also needs to be adjusted. Often it is food that provokes inflammation of the pancreas, and diet promotes recovery.

When the reason becomes drug therapy, the doctor must adjust the course or replace the drug with a less toxic one. At the same time, the effectiveness of such a measure must be continuously monitored through regular analyses. If the concentration of enzymes has changed due to liver disease or another pathological process, it must be identified and treated. For this, a full examination with hospitalization in a hospital is usually prescribed.

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An increase in the concentration of the cellular enzyme AsAt in the blood may indicate pathologies of the heart, liver or muscles.

How to check AsAt level?

AlAt is a liver enzyme released into the blood during viral, toxic and other types of lesions of this gland. Considered in relation to AsAt.

Where can I get tested?

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To learn more…

Among the most effective methods Diagnosis of many diseases involves a biochemical blood test. This study also includes the determination of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity, which helps identify serious diseases such as cancer and myocardial infarction. Moreover, in some cases, it is possible to diagnose the disease before the appearance of pronounced signs recorded during instrumental studies.

In the blood test, ALT and AST are elevated, what does this mean, what are the reasons?

An increase indicates pathological destruction of hepatocytes, heart cells, and pancreas. Normally, they enter the blood in minimal quantities, as a result of natural tissue renewal and the death of old cells. Extensive organ damage and massive cell death lead to a sharp increase in their volume in the bloodstream. Thus, an increase in ALT levels in the blood serum is typical for the following diseases and conditions:

• hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, fatty degeneration;
• acute pancreatitis;
• extensive burns, shock;
• viral infections;
• lymphoblastic leukemia;
• shocks of various etiologies;
• hematopoiesis disorders;
• muscular dystrophy;
• mononucleosis.

Increased AST in the blood or aspartate aminotransferase appears in the blood plasma in large quantities during necrotic processes in the body. Exceeding the maximum permissible values ​​by several times (from 2 to 20) is a sign of diseases of the following organs:

• Heart – coronary insufficiency, myocardial infarction, pulmonary artery thrombosis, angina attacks, postoperative condition, rheumatic carditis.
• Gallbladder and liver - cholestasis, cholangitis, amebiasis, liver cancer, hepatitis, cirrhosis.
• Pancreas – acute inflammation or phlegmon.
• Skeletal muscles - damage or dystrophy;

The plasma concentration of the enzyme also increases with systemic and infectious pathologies such as vasculitis, mononucleosis, and hemolytic syndrome.

Could the increase in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels be caused by other reasons not related to diseases? Yes, enzyme levels increase in women at the beginning of pregnancy, which is the norm. The same phenomenon can be observed when using certain medicines: antibiotics, antitumor and sedative drugs, barbiturates, oral contraceptives and others. The level of physical activity, intake of sports nutrition, and alcoholic beverages also influence the growth of indicators.

Normal values ​​and deviations

What is the normal level of ast in the blood? The answer depends on the gender and age of the patient; in women the content of this enzyme is lower than in men. Here are the basic standards (values ​​are given in U/l):

• for a newborn child in the first five days of life, the norm is up to 97;
• for a baby under six months of age the norm is slightly less – up to 77;
• for infants aged six months to one year – 82;
• for a toddler (1-3 years), the norm for asat content is less than 48;
• for a preschool child (3-6 years old) – less than 36;
• for children age group 6-12 years – the norm of enzyme content is less than 47.

Starting from the age of 12, when assessing test results, it is necessary to take into account the patient’s gender. So:

• for girls aged 12-17 years, the enzyme norm is less than 25;
• for sexually mature women this figure is slightly higher – 31;
• for boys of the age group 12-17 years old, the norm of enzyme content in the blood is less than 29;
• for mature men – 37.

Deviations from the norms

If the ast level is elevated, this does not always mean that the person is sick. Similar analysis results can be found in completely healthy women and men; the reasons for physiological excess of norms are:

• large muscle loads, for example, with intensive training sports;
• taking certain medications (vitamin A in large doses, antibiotics, hormonal birth control pills for women, barbiturates, etc.) and herbs (decoctions of valerian root, echinacea herb, etc.);
• a slight increase in ast levels is possible in women in the first half of pregnancy; this condition is normal.

However, in most cases, the level of ast is increased in the case of any disease, which means that you need to look for the causes of this condition. The most common cause of elevated enzyme levels is acute myocardial infarction. Moreover, the higher the level of asat in the blood, the larger the area of ​​damage to the heart muscle. Other reasons why AST levels are elevated:

• myocarditis of an autoimmune or infectious nature;
• angina pectoris;
• rheumatic heart disease;
• liver cancer;
• fatty, alcoholic hepatosis;
• hepatitis;
• myeloid leukemia, which occurs in a malignant form and affects the liver and myocardium.

Degrees of increase in enzyme content:

• increased slightly, which means it can be assumed that the test results were affected by medication use, or there is fatty damage to the liver tissue;
• an average level is observed in heart attack, cirrhosis and some types of liver cancer, autoimmune diseases with damage to muscles and internal organs, muscular dystrophy;
• a high level of increase is observed in hepatitis of viral origin, with a large tumor in the liver.

If the norm of asat content, on the contrary, is reduced, then the following reasons for this condition can be assumed:

• severe vitamin B6 deficiency;
• traumatic rupture of the liver.

So, aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme, the content of which in the blood plasma can be used to judge the presence of serious diseases. However, a diagnosis cannot be made based on the results of one analysis; sometimes elevated levels are detected in healthy men and women. If the analysis shows a deviation from the norm, then you need to see a doctor and undergo additional examination, and not self-medicate.

Description

Determination method Kinetic UV test (optimized, standardized by DGKC).

Material under study Blood serum

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An intracellular enzyme involved in amino acid metabolism. The test is used in the diagnosis of liver, cardiac and skeletal muscle lesions.

Catalyzes the reversible reaction of amino group transfer from aspartic acid to α-ketoglutaric acid with the formation of oxaloacetic and glutamic acids. Transamination occurs in the presence of a coenzyme - pyridoxal phosphate - a derivative of vitamin B6. AST is found in the tissues of the heart, liver, skeletal muscle, nervous tissue and kidneys, and to a lesser extent in the pancreas, spleen and lungs. AST in cells is represented by two isoenzymes - mitochondrial and cytoplasmic; about 1/3 of the total intracellular AST activity is localized in the cytoplasm of cells, 2/3 - in mitochondria.

In the myocardium, AST activity is approximately 10,000 times higher than in the blood serum of healthy people. Increased AST activity during myocardial infarction is one of the early markers of damage to the heart muscle, although its specificity is low. The level of AST in the blood serum increases 6-8 hours after the onset of a painful attack, the peak occurs at 18-24 hours, activity decreases to normal values ​​on days 4-5. There is a relationship between the size of the necrosis focus in the heart muscle and the level of AST in the blood serum. During myocardial infarction, ALT activity increases slightly, so the de Ritis ratio (AST/ALT ratio) increases sharply.

AST activity in the blood increases when liver cells are damaged simultaneously with ALT, but ALT is a relatively more liver-specific enzyme. AST (and sometimes ALT) values ​​in progressive muscular dystrophy and dermatomyositis reach 8 times the upper limit of reference values ​​(in other types of muscle diseases, especially those with a neurogenic source, enzyme activity is usually within normal limits). Pulmonary embolism can lead to an increase in AST levels by 2-3 times. A moderate increase in activity (2-5 times the upper limit of normal) is observed in acute pancreatitis, muscle damage due to bruises, as well as in gangrene and hemolytic diseases (AST activity in erythrocytes is approximately 15 times higher than in blood serum, therefore hemolysis of erythrocytes causes an increase in AST activity). It should be noted that intense, excessive muscle exercise may also cause a transient increase in serum AST activity.

Preparation

It is preferable to take blood in the morning on an empty stomach, after 8-14 hours of overnight fasting (you can drink water), it is acceptable during the day 4 hours after a light meal. On the eve of the study, it is necessary to exclude increased psycho-emotional and physical stress (sports training), and alcohol intake.

Indications for use

1. Diagnostics and differential diagnosis myocardial infarction and other diseases of the heart muscle.
2. Liver diseases.
3. Pathology of skeletal muscles.
4. Monitoring the use of medications.

Interpretation of results

Interpretation of research results contains information for the attending physician and is not a diagnosis. The information in this section should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. The doctor makes an accurate diagnosis using both the results of this examination and the necessary information from other sources: medical history, results of other examinations, etc.

Units of measurement in the Independent Laboratory INVITRO: Units/l.

Reference values:

Increasing values:

1. Fulminant form acute hepatitis, especially viral (sharp increase).
2. Necrosis or damage to liver cells of any etiology, including cholestasis and obstructive jaundice, chronic hepatitis, drug-induced liver damage.
3. Alcoholic hepatitis (AST usually >ALT).
4. Viral and chronic hepatitis (ALT>AST in most situations).
5. Neoplasms in the liver.
6. Infectious mononucleosis.
7. Necrosis or injury of cardiac or skeletal muscles.
8. Acute myocardial infarction (AST>ALT).
9. Heart failure.
10. Severe burns.
11. Heatstroke.
12. Hypothyroidism (in 40-70% of cases).
13. Intestinal obstruction (may indicate small intestinal infarction).
14. Lactic acidosis.
15. Legionnaires' disease.
16. Malignant hyperthermia.
17. Polymyalgia rheumatica.
18. Typhoid fever.
19. Thalassemia major.
20. Toxic shock syndrome.
21. Increased or normal concentration in cirrhosis, neurological diseases, ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, acute pancreatitis, kidney infarction, hemolytic anemia, malnutrition, obesity.
22. Rare metabolic diseases (lysosomal acid lipase deficiency, Wilson-Konovalov disease, Gaucher disease, etc.).
23. The use of drugs that are hepatotoxic or cause cholestasis, many other drugs can also cause an increase in AST, which is usually temporary, but may indicate hepatotoxicity (including antibiotics, statins, some antiviral drugs and etc.).