Sunday, February 11, 2024

AST important enzyme to detect abnormality in.. Liver and heart disease



AST important enzyme to detect abnormality in:
  • A- Liver disease.
  • B- Heart disease.
  • C- Liver and heart disease.
  • D- Non of the above.

The correct answer is C- Liver and heart disease.

Here's why:

AST (aspartate aminotransferase):

  • AST is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys.
  • When cells in any of these organs are damaged, AST leaks into the bloodstream.
  • Measuring the level of AST in the blood can therefore help diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions.

AST as a marker:

  • Liver disease: AST is particularly important for detecting liver disease. Elevated levels of AST are often seen in conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, and alcohol-related liver disease.
  • Heart disease: While not as specific for heart disease as other markers like CK-MB, AST can also be elevated in cases of heart attack and heart muscle damage.

Therefore:

  • Option A, Liver disease, is partially correct but doesn't capture AST's role in heart issues.
  • Option B, Heart disease, is only partially true and misses AST's significance for liver health.
  • Option D, None of the above, is incorrect as AST plays a role in detecting both liver and heart abnormalities.

Conclusion:

  • AST is an important enzyme for detecting abnormalities in both liver and heart disease, making C the most accurate answer.

Additional notes:

  • AST levels should always be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and tests for a complete picture.
  • Other enzymes, like ALT and CK-MB, can provide further information about the specific location of cell damage.