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Changes in serum dopamine beta hydroxylase activity related to coma
Diseases of the Nervous System
|September 1, 1976
Summary
Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase (DBH) activity is lower in deeply comatose patients. This suggests central nervous system damage may reduce DBH levels by impacting sympathetic nerve terminals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase (DBH) is an enzyme crucial for neurotransmitter synthesis.
- Assessing DBH activity can provide insights into neurological function and damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase (DBH) activity in patients with deep coma.
- To explore the relationship between DBH levels and the severity of central nervous system (CNS) insult.
Main Methods:
- DBH activity was measured in 24 deeply comatose patients.
- Patient data included examination, EEG, and blood DBH levels drawn within 24 hours of cerebral insult.
- DBH levels were compared to 51 age-matched healthy individuals.
Main Results:
- Deeply comatose patients exhibited significantly lower serum DBH activity compared to normal individuals.
- This finding was observed in patients unresponsive for at least 15 minutes.
Conclusions:
- Reduced serum DBH activity may be indicative of central nervous system (CNS) damage, particularly to the cerebrum.
- Decreased DBH levels could result from impaired activation of sympathetic nerve terminals due to CNS destruction or inactivation.