What Does Elevated AST Level Indicate?

Posted on Sun, 21 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 20 Sep 2014 Answered on

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I recently had a blood test result of slightly elevated AST of 41 and ALT of 12. I'm a healthy, active 57 year old female. I was a little concerned about the AST of 41 as it was 10 points above the high normal range.
Is this bad news?

Answered by Dr. Muhammed Aslam (-2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Nothing to worry

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear,welcome to HCM forum.

You have not mentioned about the situation that lead to liver function test.Actually,the report is to be assessed in the back ground of clinical profile.
Anyhow,a marginal elevation in LFT,especially AST has nothing to worry about.
There are many common conditions that can lead to marginal LFT elevation like recent use of drugs like acetaminophen,alcohol,exercise before sample collection,trauma,minor injuries or wounds etc.

In short,you need not worry about this marginal elevation.Your doctor will discuss this with you in detail.

Hope I have answered your query.
Wishing you good health.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T