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Test Code AST Aspartate Aminotransferase

EHR Test Codes

  Test Code Test Name
Atlas AST AST/GOT
Cerner AST Aspartate Aminotransferase

Specimen Requirements

Preparation of Patient: 

None

 

Container Type: 

Green Top 5mL Lithium Heparin Separator Tube

Or

 

Gold Top 6mL SST Gel & Clot Activator Tube

Specimen Type:

Plasma or Serum

 

Specimen Volume: 

2.5 mL Plasma or Serum minimum .5 mL

 

Specimen Handling/Transport:

Separate plasma or serum from cells within 2 hours of collection.

Transport ambient room temperature.

 

Specimen Stability/Storage:

5 days refrigerated 2-8°C

Performing Laboratory

Munson Healthcare Laboratories

Priority, Frequency, & Turnaround

Priority:

STAT, ASAP, Non-Emergent

 

Frequency:

24 hours 7 days a week

 

Turnaround:

0 - 1 days

STAT 60 minute from receipt in lab

Methodology

L-aspartate to oxaloacetate

Reporting

Reference Range:

8-36 U/L

 

Critical Decision: 

Pediatric patients up to 21 years old ≥ 150 IU/L

Note:  Critical values are called to the provider and communicated as critical.  Documentation of the call is recorded in the patient record.

Clinical Significance

AST is found in highest concentrations in the liver and heart muscle and is abundant in skeletal muscle, kidney and pancreas. The most information is gained when this enzyme is measured simultaneously with other enzymes.

CPT Code(s)

84450