The AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), also known as SGPT (Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, muscles, kidneys, and brain. When any of these tissues are damaged, AST is released into the bloodstream, making it a useful marker for detecting organ injury.
This test is commonly used to evaluate liver health, detect liver damage caused by hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcohol use, and to assess heart muscle damage. It is often ordered alongside ALT (SGPT) as part of a liver function panel.
