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Jejunal surface pH measurements in tropical sprue
1Institute of Physiology, Glasgow University, Scotland, UK.
Summary
The jejunal mucosal surface pH is elevated in tropical sprue patients, correlating with impaired intestinal function and fat excretion. This finding suggests altered ion transport in the jejunum.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Tropical sprue is a malabsorption syndrome affecting the small intestine.
- Jejunal mucosal surface pH is a potential indicator of intestinal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure jejunal mucosal surface pH in tropical sprue patients.
- To investigate the relationship between jejunal pH and intestinal function tests.
Main Methods:
- In vitro incubation of jejunal biopsy samples in Krebs-phosphate buffer.
- Measurement of mucosal surface pH.
- Correlation analysis with intestinal function tests (faecal fat excretion, xylose absorption, vitamin B12 absorption) and nutritional markers.
Main Results:
- Jejunal mucosal surface pH was significantly higher in tropical sprue patients (6.0 +/- 0.08) compared to healthy controls (5.8 +/- 0.09).
- Patients with more severe intestinal dysfunction (high scorers) exhibited a higher mean jejunal pH (6.17 +/- 0.08) than those with milder dysfunction (low scorers, 5.75 +/- 0.06).
- Jejunal pH correlated positively with faecal fat excretion and negatively with xylose and vitamin B12 absorption.
Conclusions:
- Elevated jejunal mucosal surface pH is characteristic of tropical sprue.
- Jejunal pH may reflect the degree of impaired ion transport in tropical sprue.
- This finding is analogous to observations in coeliac disease, suggesting a common pathophysiological mechanism.