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Amylase thermolability as a screening test for pancreatic pseudocysts
The British Journal of Surgery
|June 1, 1978
Summary
Amylase thermolability, a measure of heat sensitivity, is a useful indicator for detecting pancreatic pseudocysts in patients with acute pancreatitis. This simple screening test aids in identifying complications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Elevated serum amylase is a hallmark of acute pancreatitis.
- Distinguishing acute pancreatitis from pancreatic pseudocyst complications can be challenging.
- Amylase thermolability has been investigated as a potential diagnostic marker.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate amylase thermolability as a screening test for pancreatic pseudocyst formation.
- To compare amylase thermolability in healthy individuals, acute pancreatitis patients, and those with pancreatic pseudocysts.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were heated at 65°C for 15 minutes.
- Thermolability of amylase was quantified in control subjects, patients with acute pancreatitis, and patients with pancreatic pseudocysts.
Main Results:
- Normal serum amylase exhibited 44% thermolability.
- Acute pancreatitis significantly increased amylase thermolability to 84%.
- In pancreatic pseudocyst cases, 79% of amylase remained thermolabile even with near-normal total amylase levels.
Conclusions:
- Amylase thermolability increases during acute pancreatitis.
- Persistent high amylase thermolability suggests pancreatic pseudocyst formation.
- Amylase thermolability serves as a simple screening tool for pancreatic pseudocysts secondary to acute pancreatitis.