• P Sahdev, R R Garramone, R J Schwartz, S R Steelman, and L M Jacobs.
• Department of Trauma, Nassau County Medical Center, East Meadow, New York 11554.
• Ann Emerg Med. 1991 Aug 1;20(8):838-41.

Study ObjectivesTo determine the utility of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) in predicting intra-abdominal injury in blunt trauma patients.DesignDescriptive review of 309 blunt trauma admissions during study period.SettingA 1,000-bed Level I trauma center in a major metropolitan area.Type Of ParticipantsConsecutive adult blunt trauma admissions to the trauma service.InterventionsSerum levels of study enzymes were measured at initial evaluation and subsequent hospitalization. Results of all intra-abdominal evaluations were recorded.Main ResultsSignificantly greater numbers of patients with SGOT and/or SGPT elevated to more than 130 IU/L had associated intra-abdominal injuries as compared with patients with enzyme elevations of less than 130 IU/L (52% versus 8%). All 18 patients with liver injuries had one or both enzymes elevated to more than 130 IU/L. Higher enzyme levels were more frequently associated with liver injury.ConclusionsElevation of serum levels of the study enzymes is a marker for intra-abdominal injury. Levels in excess of 130 IU/L are relative indicators of abdominal computed tomography scan. Levels of less than 130 IU/L are unlikely to be associated with liver injury.

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