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Evidence to Improve Care

Aspartate Aminotransferase Testing


Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee Recommendations

  • The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee recommends that aspartate aminotransferase testing be restricted to ordering by or on the advice of physicians with experience treating liver disorders.

Read the full OHTAC Recommendation report



Aspartate aminotransferase is an enzyme (a protein) found in many organs and tissues in the body, including the liver, heart, and muscle cells. Doctors often use aspartate aminotransferase test results to diagnose or monitor liver damage. However, AST is found in parts of the body other than the liver, so it is not a very specific test.


Health Quality Ontario Reviews Aspartate Aminotransferase Testing

Health Quality Ontario talked to experts to find out whether aspartate aminotransferase testing in community-based laboratories is helpful.


Asparate Aminotransferase Testing in Community-Based Laboratories: An Expert Consultation (PDF)
June 2013


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The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has accepted this recommendation.

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has provided the following response: AST was removed from the Ontario Laboratory Requisition form in August 2007.



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