CC 2 | Lab - Amylase and Lipase

Protein Electrophoresis and Amylase Activity

Overview of Electrophoresis Regions

  • Beta to Alpha Globulin Regions: Key focus on the electrophoretic profile observed in protein electrophoresis.

  • Commonly Observed Fractions:

    • P2 (plasma protein fraction)

    • S1 (albumin fraction)

    • T2 (transitional protein fraction)

    • S2 (second globulin fraction)

Clinical Context

  • Acute Pancreatitis:

    • Elevated levels of amylase are diagnostic tools for acute pancreatitis.

    • Can also indicate renal failure.

  • Specific Findings:

    • The S type accounts for two-thirds of amylase activity.

    • Peak amylase activity is observed 2 hours after the onset of an attack, with normalization within 3 to 5 days.

    • Amylase levels can remain elevated for 7 to 14 days in acute pancreatitis cases.

Amylase in Urine and Blood

  • Hyperamylasemia:

    • Refers to elevated amylase levels in blood.

    • Increased blood levels of amylase correlate with increased urinary excretion of amylase.

    • Urinary excretion of amylase remains elevated for up to 7 days following an acute pancreatitis episode.

Anatomy of the Kidney

  • Kidney Structure:

    • Includes the glomerulus and its function in filtration. Amylase is typically filtered through the kidneys during normal circumstances.

Methods for Measuring Amylase Activity

  • Influence of Heparin and Other Substances:

    • Heparin can inhibit amylase activity.

    • Other substances that may impact amylase readings include morphine.

Amylase Measurement Techniques

  1. Sacral CHA Method:

    • Classic reference method expressed in smoky units.

    • Measures the amount of reducing sugars.

    • Focus on Soma YGI reducing sugars, significant in evaluating amylase activity.

  2. Amylase Assays:

    • Aminoplasty: Measures amylase activity by observing the decrease in substrate concentration (mainly the degradation of starches).

    • Note: There is a noted threefold increase in amylase levels within a normal 24-hour urine test.

Clinical Ratios

  • AC Ratio:

    • Normal amylase to creatinine ratio is between 1% and 4%.

    • Normal tissue levels show a ratio of around 1% to 2%.