Serum enzyme activities in endotoxin shock

Abstract

The glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT), lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), α-hydroxybutyric dehydrogenase (HBD), and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) activities in the serum of 13 rabbits have been studied upon intravenous Escherichia coli endotoxin administration. The systolic blood pressure and the rectal temperature of the animals were recorded at each blood sampling. A prompt rise of the serum GOT, LDH, and HBD activities occurred, that of the serum GOT being the most marked. No increase of serum CPK activity during the shock was noted. The observed elevations subsided within 48 hr after endotoxin administration. The liver is suggested as the most likely point of enzyme release into the blood; the effect might be caused by tissue hypoxia coupled with catecholamine leakage.