Transaminase, serum glutamic oxaloacetic: An enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells, and is released into blood when the liver or heart is damaged. Blood SGOT levels are thus elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise SGOT levels. Interpretation of elevated SGOT levels depends on the context, and can necessitate additional clinical and laboratory information. Also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST).
