Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase (GOT) in Serum
This test measures the activity of an enzyme called glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), which helps assess liver function and detect potential liver damage.
["GOT helps doctors check for liver issues, including inflammation or injury."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44050-3
- Short code
- GPI RBC-cCnt
- Synonyms
- GPI RBC-cCnt
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- true
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
GOT is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, muscle, and other tissues. When liver cells are damaged, GOT leaks into the bloodstream, raising its levels. This test helps identify conditions like hepatitis, liver disease, or alcohol-related liver damage.
Why Might I Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellow skin), fatigue, abdominal pain, or if they suspect liver problems from conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or exposure to toxins.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 12 hours before the blood draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and generally painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated GOT levels often indicate liver damage or disease, but they can also be raised in other conditions like heart attacks, muscle injuries, or certain infections. While GOT alone isn’t diagnostic, it’s often used alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
AST (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my GOT level is higher than expected?
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