A Roth IRA can be an individual retirement account containing investments in securities, usually common stocks and bonds, often through mutual funds (although other investments, including derivatives, notes, certificates of deposit, and real estate are possible). Direct contributions to a Roth IRA (principal) may be withdrawn tax and penalty-free at any time. 2  Earnings may be withdrawn tax and penalty-free after 5 years if the condition of age 59Â½ (or other qualifying condition) is also met.
How is it used? The blood test for aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is usually used to detect liver damage. It is often ordered in conjunction with another liver enzyme, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), or as part of a liver panel or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to screen for and/or help diagnose liver disorders.
The ALT blood test measures the level of the enzyme alanine transaminase (ALT) in the blood. ALT is found primarily in the liver, but is also found in smaller amounts in the kidneys, heart, muscles, and pancreas. The ALT test checks how well your liver is working and evaluates its overall health. The ALT test was formerly called serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). ALT is typically measured to determine if the liver is damaged or diseased. If the liver is damaged or diseased, it will release ALT into the blood.