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Pancreatic enzyme elevation in measles
1Department of Internal Medicine, A, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel.
Abstract:
During an outbreak of measles in the period from May 1993 through February 1994, a 23-year-old woman with measles was admitted because of abdominal pain and vomiting. Moderately elevated levels of serum and urinary amylase were found. We investigated prospectively the next nine consecutive young adults hospitalized with severe measles. Pancreatic and other organ involvement was determined by serum and urinary amylase, serum lipase, and additional appropriate biochemical and hematological data. Four patients had elevated amylase levels in both serum and urine, whereas in one, serum amylase alone was increased. Serum lipase determined in eight patients was elevated in seven. In all patients elevated serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase or lactate dehydrogenase were found. In seven patients serum calcium concentrations were below the lower limit of normal. Four patients had mild to moderate thrombocytopenia. This is the first detailed report of pancreatic involvement in young adults with measles. This abnormal finding, its possible underlying mechanisms, and the clinical significance are discussed.
Insights
Severe measles can cause pancreatic damage in young adults, indicated by elevated amylase and lipase levels. This study highlights potential organ complications during measles outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Measles is a highly contagious viral illness.
- While typically associated with respiratory symptoms, systemic complications can occur.
- Previous literature has not extensively detailed pancreatic involvement in adult measles cases.
Observation:
- A prospective study investigated nine young adults hospitalized with severe measles.
- Patients presented with symptoms including abdominal pain and vomiting.
- Biochemical markers were used to assess organ involvement.
Findings:
- Elevated serum and urinary amylase levels were observed in most patients.
- Serum lipase was elevated in seven out of eight patients.
- Hepatobiliary enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH) and hypocalcemia were common; thrombocytopenia was noted in four patients.
Implications:
- This study provides the first detailed report of pancreatic involvement in young adults with severe measles.
- Elevated pancreatic enzymes suggest a potential mechanism for gastrointestinal symptoms during measles.
- Further research is warranted to understand the underlying mechanisms and clinical significance of measles-associated pancreatitis.