Understanding Low AST Levels: What Does It Mean?

Question
I am confused. Almost all info I have found related to elevated AST and that usually indicates the liver is damaged, alcohol etc. I just read one of your posts that said LOW AST can indicate liver problems. My AST level is 5L. The ref on my test is 10-35 u/l.
Can you comment?

Answer
Hi Jay.   I'm not sure of the post you're referring to.  I don't recall saying that a low AST (or ALT or that matter) is a sign of a liver PROBLEM, but it can be decreased in certain conditions (not always liver-related).  A person's AST can be decreased in uremia, B6 deficiency, or drug therapy (such as lipitor, zycor, or crestor).  Sometimes no cause is found for a low AST.  But you're right, in liver DAMAGE, the AST (and other liver enzymes) will be elevated.

Samantha