Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Qualitative — Catheter/Airway Epithelial Test (Deprecated)
A deprecated qualitative AST test linked to a catheter or airway epithelial specimen; the exact specimen and method should be confirmed before interpreting results.
["This obsolete test reports whether an AST-related reaction is detected rather than measuring a specific concentration."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48318-0
- Short code
- Deprecated Cat Hair+Epith IgE RAST Ql
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Cat Hair+Epith IgE RAST Ql
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
AST commonly stands for aspartate aminotransferase, an enzyme found in several body tissues. This record describes a qualitative test, meaning it reports whether a reaction is detected rather than providing a measured concentration. The test is marked as deprecated, and the compressed name does not confirm the exact specimen or testing method.
Why might I need this test?
You may encounter this test when reviewing older laboratory records or results involving a catheter or epithelial specimen. It may have been used to assess the presence of AST-related activity in a collected sample.
How is the test performed?
A clinician or laboratory collects the designated specimen and analyzes it using an assay that produces a qualitative result, such as detected or not detected. The original laboratory should be contacted to verify the specimen type and method, especially for an older or deprecated result.
How do I prepare for the test?
No specific preparation can be determined from the abbreviated test name. Follow the instructions provided for specimen collection, and ask the healthcare professional ordering the test if you are unsure whether fasting or other preparation is required.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A detected or positive result may indicate that AST-related activity was present in the tested specimen, but the finding cannot be interpreted without the confirmed specimen, assay, and reference information. Because this test is deprecated and qualitative, it should not be used by itself to diagnose liver, heart, or muscle disease. A current laboratory report or confirmatory testing may be needed.
Short name
Qualitative AST test
Frequently asked questions
Is this test still commonly used?
What does a qualitative result mean?
Can this result diagnose a condition?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy