Getting high aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels in your blood test can be alarming, especially if it is extremely elevated. AST is a liver enzyme that processes amino acids. It is present in the blood but only in low concentrations. High AST levels can be due to liver damage or an underlying disorder affecting its function. Read further to know more about the medical conditions that can cause elevated AST.Liver ProblemsAny damage or problem that disrupts liver functions can lead to liver enzymes like AST being released in more amounts to the bloodstream. This also includes the alanine transaminase (ALT) enzyme, which contributes to energy production. Learn more about what it means to have high ALT levels.The following are the two most common liver problems that lead to elevated AST levels.HepatitisCharacterized by the inflammation of the liver, hepatitis is usually caused by a strain of viruses categorized as hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D, and E. But there are also cases when a non...
