A patient is undergoing venipuncture for collection of a blood sample for aspartate aminotransferase (AST)testing.Which condition is this type of testing most useful in identifying?
A)Coronary artery disease
B)Joint disease
C)Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
D)Hepatitis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) testing is most useful in identifying liver damage or disease such as hepatitis. AST is an enzyme found mainly in the liver but also in other tissues, such as muscle and kidney. When the liver is damaged, AST is released into the bloodstream, and levels increase. Elevated AST levels can indicate liver inflammation or damage, which is commonly seen in cases of hepatitis.

A Patient Is Undergoing Venipuncture for Collection of a Blood