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Liver Function (LFTs)

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Normal range 10–40 U/L (0.17–0.67 µkat/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: SGOT, aspartate transaminase.

10–40 U/LReference range

Reference range

ConventionalU/L
1040
SIµkat/L
0.170.67
SpecimenSerum
Conventional range10–40 U/L
SI range0.17–0.67 µkat/L
Conversion factor×0.0167 (conventional → SI)
PanelLiver Function (LFTs)

Convert any Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)?

The standard teaching reference range for Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is 10–40 U/L in conventional units, or 0.17–0.67 µkat/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

  • Liver injury
  • Myocardial or skeletal muscle injury
  • Hemolysis
  • Alcoholic hepatitis (AST > ALT)

Below the range

Common causes of a low Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

  • Vitamin B6 deficiency (rare)

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Less liver-specific than ALT; an AST:ALT ratio > 2 suggests alcoholic liver disease.

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Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)7–56 U/LAlbumin, Serum3.5–5 g/dLAlkaline Phosphatase (ALP)44–147 U/LAmmonia15–45 µg/dLBilirubin, Direct (Conjugated)0–0.3 mg/dLBilirubin, Total0.3–1.2 mg/dL