AST (SGOT)

AST, also called SGOT, is an enzyme found in the liver and also in the heart and muscles. This blood test measures the amount in your bloodstream, where higher levels can reflect stressed or damaged cells.

A raised AST may indicate liver inflammation, though because the enzyme is also present in muscle and heart tissue, the result is read alongside ALT and other tests. This helps your doctor understand where the change is most likely coming from.