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Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A qualitative AST test checks for detectable aspartate aminotransferase activity. The source entry is marked deprecated, so confirm the current test with your care team.

Quick summary

["This test checks for detectable AST activity, which can be affected by injury in the liver, heart, skeletal muscle, or other tissues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15680-2
Short code
Deprecated D farinae IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated D farinae 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?

Aspartate aminotransferase, or AST, is an enzyme found in many body tissues. A qualitative test reports whether AST activity is detected rather than providing a numeric measurement.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate possible tissue injury when a numeric AST measurement is not available or appropriate. Results are interpreted with your symptoms, medical history, and other laboratory tests.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory uses a validated enzyme assay to determine whether AST activity can be detected in the submitted sample. The abbreviated test name does not clearly identify the specimen, so follow the sample instructions provided by the laboratory.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is usually not required for an AST test unless it is part of a broader panel with specific instructions. Tell your care team about medicines, recent injections, heavy exercise, and any symptoms such as muscle pain, chest pain, or jaundice.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Qualitative AST

Frequently asked questions

What does a qualitative AST result mean?
It generally indicates whether AST activity was detected rather than showing an exact amount. The reporting terms and interpretation depend on the laboratory's assay.
Does abnormal AST always mean my liver is damaged?
No. AST is also present in the heart, skeletal muscle, and other tissues, so an abnormal result does not identify the affected organ by itself.
Should I request a quantitative AST test instead?
Ask your clinician or laboratory whether this deprecated test has been replaced with a numeric AST measurement or another liver or muscle panel. The appropriate test depends on why it was ordered.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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