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Chemistry Description and Guide
Aspartate aminotransferase/AST (SGOT)
The enzyme aspartate aminotransferase is present in large amounts in the organs and
tissues of dogs and cats. It is found in the cytoplasm and mitochondria of the cells and
is released into the blood during changes in cell membrane permeability or necrosis.
(See EnzymesQBHF)
The test is not a specific or sensitive indicator of damage to any organ or tissue.
Principal reasons for performing the test:
To investigate damage to liver, cardiac, or skeletal muscle.
Most common abnormality indicated by the test:
Hepatic parenchymal lesions.
Special precautions in sample collection:
Blood samples must be processed and centrifuged immediately after collection. Even
slight hemolysis can cause marked increases in activity. EDTA and fluoride/oxalate
should not be used as anticoagulants. Remove plasma or serum promptly from the clot
or cells. Hemolyzed specimens should not be used because AST contamination from
red cells will occur.
Complementary tests:
Aspartate aminotransferase activity is usually determined in conjunction with other tests
of liver, cardiac, or skeletal muscle damage or function.
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