Serum Glutamic Oxalacetic Transaminase Levels in the Toxemias of Pregnancy

Abstract

Serum transaminase levels are elevated in acute ischemia of the myocardium, liver, kidney, and brain. The arteriolar spasm of the pregnancy toxemias involves these vital tissues. In a study of this enzyme in 125 normal and complicated obstetric patients, it was shown that in the absence of acute cardiac and hepatic disease, the serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase is normal in pregnancy with the exception of the pregnancy toxemias. The serum transaminase level is of value in distinguishing chronic cardiovascular disease and chronic renal disease from toxemia. It may also be of value in judging the degree of toxemia and the response to therapy.