What does AST mean in the comprehensive metabolic panel?

AST stands for Aspartate aminotransferase. It is an enzyme that is found in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscles. AST levels are often elevated in people with liver disease, heart attack, or muscle damage.

The AST test is a blood test that measures the amount of AST in your blood. It is often used to help diagnose and monitor liver disease. AST levels can be elevated in a variety of liver conditions, including:

* Acute hepatitis

* Chronic hepatitis

* Cirrhosis

* Liver cancer

AST levels can also be elevated in people with heart disease, such as:

* Heart attack

* Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)

* Pericarditis (inflammation of the sac around the heart)

AST levels can also be elevated in people with muscle damage, such as:

* Muscular dystrophy

* Rhabdomyolysis (breakdown of muscle tissue)

* Polymyositis (inflammation of the muscles)

The AST test is a simple blood test that can provide valuable information about your liver health. If you have elevated AST levels, your doctor will likely order additional tests to determine the cause.