Serum tumour-associated trypsin inhibitor (TATI) and renal function

Tumour-associated trypsin inhibitor (TATI) is a low molecular weight (MW) protein employed as a tumour marker. The blood levels of some low MW proteins increase in renal insufficiency. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between serum TATI and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Serum beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2M) and plasma creatinine were also determined. The decrease of GFR was accompanied by an increase in the other parameters. The maximum increase of TATI was from a mean basal value of 8.51 +/- 5.58 micrograms l-1 in subjects with normal renal function to 107.27 +/- 63.34 micrograms l-1 in patients with renal failure; beta 2M increased from 1.45 +/- 0.38 to 11.16 +/- 5.73 mg l-1 and creatinine from 1.05 +/- 0.17 to 5.07 +/- 1.93 mg dl-1. The increase in TATI occurs sooner and is greater than that of beta 2M and of creatinine. These results suggest that TATI is handled by the kidney. It is sensitive marker of reduction in renal function. When TATI is used as a tumour marker, renal function must be taken into account in the evaluation of the results.