My AST is 56 - Liver & Pancreas Disorders Message Board

woolleydownes · 10-03-2007, 04:54 AM

I am 26 years old and had a recent AST score of 56. I am due to go back for another liver function test in a few weeks. I have drank a fair amount in the past but have cut it out completely since I had this result.

Should I be concerned at a reading of 56 and is there anything I can do to lower this?

WednesdaysChild · 10-04-2007, 06:21 PM

This is not alarmingly high for AST. The reference range is up to about 35 U/L and abnormalities would cause severe fluctuations in the enzyme value. I wouldn't be concerned.

naklang · 10-08-2007, 11:38 PM

The AST could be high for other reasons (exertion etc). The ALT is more liver specific. Dr. usually are not too concerned until the readings are in excess of 2X the upper limit. But if your AST/ALT come down after abstaining from alcohol for a week or so, then it is pretty sure that the alcohol is the cause. If so, then the amount you are drinking is too much for you.

Elevated enzymes mean cellular damage. Cellular damage means the body tries to repair it, which can mean scarring. Scarred liver tissue does not function well, if at all.

You're still young enough to avoid being 50 years old and yellow. Limit the drinking to a few pints a week and never more than 2-3 on any one occasion. Above that and alcohol becomes toxic. And the best part of only 2-3 a week................no more hangovers.