Serum Enzymes

Abstract

RECENTLY, the determination of serum levels of glutamic oxalacetic transaminase was introduced as an aid in the differentiation of myocardial infarction and pulmonary infarction or embolism.1 2 3 4 This test is based on the knowledge that heart muscle is rich in transaminase and on the assumption that necrosis of the muscle liberates significant amounts of the enzyme into the blood, where it can be measured. From the data reported the assumption appears justified. However, three main drawbacks to this method exist: abnormal serum levels of transaminase persist only twenty-four to seventy-two hours after the infarction occurs; some patients with unquestioned infarcts of . . .