Blood Chemistry: Liver: AST

Question 1

Is AST liver specific?

Answer 1

no, it is not an organ specific enzyme

Question 2

When is AST released?

Answer 2

when cells are damaged

Question 3

Where is AST found? (5)

Answer 3

1. heart
2. liver
3. muscle
4. kidney
5. pancreas

Question 4

What are the common causes of AST being released? (3)

Answer 4

1. hepatic disease
2. muscle inflammation/injury
3. hemolysis (lab or animal)

Question 5

Why is AST used in large animals? (3)

Answer 5

1. for liver disease
2. eliminate muscle injury with clinical signs or CK activity
3. test AST with CK