You are on page 1of 84

Practicals

Lab. Practical 1

Blood Glucose Estimation

Lab. Practical 2

Oral Glucose Tolerance

Lab. Practical 3

Glycated Hemoglobin Estimation

Lab. Practical 4

Measurment of Triglycerides

Lab. Practical 5

Measurement of Total Cholesterol , HDL and LDL

Lab. Practical 6

Renal Function Tests: BUN and Creatinine estimation

Lab. Practical 7

Creatinine Clearance Estimation

Lab. Practical 8

Liver Function Tests 1: Bilirubin ; Total and Direct

Lab. Practical 9

Liver Function Tests 2: Enzymes; ALT, AST and GGT

Lab. Practical 10

Albumin and Total Protein Estimation

Lab. Practical 11

Bone profile Testes

Lab. Practical 12

Cardiac profile testes

Lab. Practical 13 15

Tutorials

Introduction To Applied Biochemistry

General Comments about testing


There are so many different methods used to analyze different chemical compounds that to state one
method over another is unfair. Another issue is that your body chemistry changes throughout the day in
response to external conditions such as exercise and internal conditions such as kidney function. This
makes comparisons among various tests difficult to do. One method to lessen these variables is to try to
have your tests done by the same laboratory so that comparisons of test values are possible. It is also
beneficial then to have your tests drawn under the same conditions (fasting/non fasting, early
morning/late afternoon, etc.) so that you can eliminate these interferences when you look at your
results.

Practices of Clinical Biochemistry Part II:


Estimation of Blood Glucose
Introduction:
The importance of testing the blood glucose level comes from the fact that the brain cells are
very dependent on the extracellular glucose concentration for their energy supply; hypoglycemia is likely
to impair cerebral functions as well as do the hyperglycemia especially of rapid onset, which can cause
cerebral dysfunction by affecting extracellular osmolarity.
Objectives:
-To know the different methods for estimation of blood glucose
-To know the precautions needed to get accurate results and better interpretation of
glycemic status in relation to disease condition.
Methods:
Many methods were developed to estimate the glucose level in body fluids among which the
commonly used nowadays, the enzymatic methods. These methods can be summarized and
categorized into
A) Reduction methods: These methods depend on the reductive property of glucose(aldose)
1-Ferriccyanide( Hoffmans) method: using ferricyanide which is reduced by the
glucose .
Fe+++
Fe++ (color change from yellow to colorless solution that will
diminish the absorbance measured photometerically )
2-Copper sulfate methods:
Benedict: The reagent contains Na-citrate &Na carbonate with CuSO 4. It gives
color acc. To conc. of glucose (green-----yellow-----brown-----red).
Fehling : using KOH &Na/K tartrate with CuSO4
Folin- Wu : Alkaline Cu SO4 +Phosphomolybdic acid molybdenum blue
by reducing Cu2O
CuO2
3-Smogi-Nelson method: using Arsenomolybdate
N.B. The reduction methods need alkaline medium &heat
These methods are qualitative & semi-quantitative.
B) Aromatic amines method:
O-toludine +glucose (aldhyde)

heat &acidity

glucosamine (colored )

C) Enzymatic methods:
1-Hexokinase methods(The reference method).
With pre-deproteinization of sample or without.
Glucose +ATP +HKADP+G6P
G6P +NAD +G6PD 6 P-gluconolactone +NADH+H
(measured at 340)
2- Glucose oxidase methods:
-Trinders (Enz.-Dye Colorimetric ) method:
which is colorimetric either by spectrophotometer or refractrometer
(refractrometeric methods either in a film form [kodak Ectachem] or a strip form
[Dry chemistry] ).
-Kinetic method:
by measuring the increase in absorbance through increase in NADH+H
-Polarigraphic method:
using O2 electrode to detect O2 utilization.
N.B. GOD/POD method can not used for detection of urine glucose because the urine
contains interfering substances for peroxidase (POD) .
- To use this method treatment of the urine sample either by Somogi Nelson filtrate or Ion
Exchange Resin is taken before running . Also, using GOD/POD method in urine with
modification like , Polarigraphic determination with post-reaction elimination of H 2O2 by:
ethanol & catalase or Iodide & molybdate.
3- Glucose Dehydrogenase Method:
Glucose +NAD

GDH

Gluconolactone +NADH+H (measured at 340)

Glucose Oxidase for blood glucose estimation (Experiment #1)


PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Glucose oxidase (GOD) catalyses the oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid. The formed
hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), is detected by a chromogenic oxygen acceptor, phenolaminophenazone in the presence of peroxidase (POD):
Principle: (Trinders method )
-D-glucose

Mutarotase

-D-glucose +H2O+O2

-D-glucose
Glucose oxidase

H2O2+ 4-aminophenazone+phenol

D-gluconic acid+H2O2
Peroxidase

Quinonemine +4 H2O

The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the glucose concentration in the sample.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body; insulin facilitates glucose entry into the
cells. Diabetes is a disease manifested by hyperglycemia; patients with diabetes demonstrate an
inability to produce insulin. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should
integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION

Working reagent (WR):


Dissolve the contents of one vial R 2 Enzymes in one bottle of R 1 Buffer.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
The reagent is stable 1 month after reconstitution in the refrigerator (2-8C) or 7 days at room
temperature (15-25C).
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 505 nm 0.10.
Requirements:
*Samples:
-Blood samples
Whole blood
Serum
Plasma (with Ca.oxalates/NaF), which is the preferred sample
-Fresh urine by double void collection technique.?
-CSF collected in sterile clean container and to be done immediately or centrifuged to get cell
free fluid.
Instrumentation:
-Photometer adjusted on wavelength 540 nm
-Cuvette (light path) 1 cm
-Water bath at 37 C
-Automatic pipettes, disposable test tubes , racks and disposable tips for the
dispensers.
PROCEDURE
1
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 505 nm (490-550)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1 cm light path
Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37C / 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
23. Pipette into a cuvette:

lank
1.0
WR (mL)
-Standard (L)
-Sample (L)
14. Mix and incubate for 10 min at 37C or 15-20 min at room temperature (15-25C).
15. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and standard, against the Blank.
The colour is stable for at least 30 minutes.
CALCULATIONS

(A) Sample x 100 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL glucose in the sample


(A) Standard
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.0555= mmol/L.
*Linearity of the test = 400 mg/dl (Samples give higher level must be retested with dilution
by suitable buffer or dist. H2O)
Result: Abs. Of the Standard ~ 0.3
As the concentration of glucose standard = 100 mg/dl
The Glucose concentration in the sample = 333 X Abs. Of the Sample
Normal Range:
Blood glucose Fasting= 70 - 110 mg/dl & 2 hrs. Postprandial = 110 - 140 mg/dl
Urine glucose .. < detectable limit (Nil)
CSF glucose ~ 60 - 90 mg/dl
N.B. To express the result in mmol/L divide by 18 ( MW of Glucose =180)

Interpretation:

I -Hypoglycemia : The patient considered critically hypoglycemic if:


Whole Blood glucose level < 40mg/dl
Serum/Plasma glucose level < 45mg/dl
A- Well Fed State Hypoglycemia:
1- Excessive Insulin Release:
a.
Reactive Hypoglycemia
b.
Alimentary Hyperinsulinism
c.
Leucine Hypersensitivity
2- Inherited Enzyme Defect:
a.
Galactose -1- Phosphate
b.
Fructose -1- Phosphate
3- Fed Status Functional Hypoglycemia:
B- Fasting Hypoglycemia:
1-Organic Hypoglycemia:
a-Pancreatic B-Cell disease/CA
b-Non-Pancreatic Tumors
c-Anterior Pituitary Hypo-function
d-Adrenocortical Hypo-function
e-Ingestion of Akee Fruit

2- Functional Fasting Hypoglycemia


a- On specific hepatic enzyme deficiency:
1- Genetic Deficiency or Delayed Maturation of Enzymes in Premature Babies
2- Glycogen Storage Disease
b- Induced by Exogenous Agents:
1-Alcohol Intake
2-Excessive Insulin Administration
3-Excessive Sulfonylurea Administration

II - Hyperglycemia :

Diabetes Mellitus
Hemochromatosis
Hypokalemia
Stress
Pheochromocytoma
Anesthesia
Pregnancy
Hyperthyroidism
Cushing disease
Hyperpituitarism (gigantism)

Discussion:
*Physiological & Biochemical Background:
Glucose metabolism, Insulin action and other hormonal effects on glucose in
the human body.
*Pathological & Disease Correlation: Diabetes Mellitus, Cushing
disease ,Hyperthyroidism ..etc
Questions:
12345-

What is the basis of reduction methods for glucose estimation ?


Give short notes on Trinders method for glucose estimation.
When does a person considered hypoglycemic?
What are the types of hypoglycemia ?
Give an account on the principle of glucose oxidase method for glucose estimation.

ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST


Introduction:

On standard oral glucose dose, the response of the body regarding the absorption and
metabolism of glucose said to be tolerant on meeting the normal elevation and return. Whereas
abnormal and improper glucose metabolism is termed glucose intolerance. This used to diagnose
diseases where the glucose metabolism is impaired as in Diabetes mellitus. Oral glucose tolerance test
(OGTT) has been widely used as the golden standard for diagnosing diabetes mellitus in clinically
doubtful cases. Lately, thought, the use of OGTT in primary care has been questioned for several
reasons. It has low reproducibility and is very expensive. However, for the detection of diabetes in
pregnant women, it is still recommended.
Objectives:
It is to practice the OGTT and knowing the uses and interpretation regarding the diagnostic
benefits of this laboratory test.
Indications:
1- Borderline fasting blood sugar for >2 times (~ 110 125mg/dl)
2- Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes (GDM) at 24 28 weeks of gestation especially for those
have a family history of diabetes.
3- After delivery for those was suffering from GDM.
OGTT (Experiment # 2):
*Patient preparation (Perquisites) ;
Activity--Don't smoke or exercise strenuously for 8 hours before the test or during the
test.
Diet--Eat a high-carbohydrate diet (> 150 g/day) for 3 days, then fast for 10 to 12 hours
before the test. Don't drink coffee or alcohol for 8 hours before the test.
Drugs (medicines)-Inform the person performing the test to omit any medications listed,
as under taking these drugs the test results may differ (contraceptives to be stopped one
cycle before the performance of OGTT).
The test must be performed at daytime (morning).
* General description of test
Test usually takes 3 hours but can last as long as 6 hours (extended OGTT).
Drink water frequently during the test (the only allowed fluid to drink).
The first blood sample and the first urine sample are collected between 7 A.M. and 9
A.M., after you have fasted for 12 hours.
Operator gives a test load of glucose, usually 75 100 gram dextrose / 300 ml water,
lemon flavored . Drink the entire solution in 5 minutes.
Blood and urine samples are collected at 30 min., 60 min., 90 min.,120 min. and 3 hours
and sometimes immediately after drinking oral glucose solution.
Dose of Oral Glucose:
Dextrose:
1 1.75 g/kg. body wt. (for adults0 and not exceeds 100 g.
It is to be dissolved in 250 300 ml lemon flavored water.
Fortical : 113 ml completed to 300 ml water
Lucozade: 350 ml. (ready to use)

*Samples:
Blood samples ; fasting(basal) sample, 30min. after oral glucose load, 60min, 90min,
120min. (in extended OGTT another 2 samples will be taken at 2hour and 3 hours).
Urine samples ; first fasting urine and the hourly collected urine samples.
Calculation: there are different methods to calculate and interpret the glucose levels (mg/dl)in OGTT:
Glucose sample
Fasting
30 min.
60 min.
90 min.
120 min.
2 hour
Calculation of Results

Wilkerson Criteria
> 130 1 point
>190 point
>140 point
>130 1 point
2 3 point Diabetic
- 1 point Suspect
Zero Non diabetic

Fajan-conn criteria
>190 +1
> 165 +1
> 140 +1
3 Diabetic
1 2 Suspect
Zero Non diabetic

Revised Summation
*If of results
(F + 60min. + 90 min. + 120
min.) > 600 mg/dl =
Diabetic
*If of results < 600 = non
diabetic

Results and Diagnosis: Glucose tolerance tests may lead to one of the following diagnoses:
Normal Response
A person is said to have a normal response when the 2-hour glucose level
is less than or equal to 110 mg/dl, or following this normal levels.
Time

Pregnancy

Other Adults

Child

Fasting

<100

<110

<130

30, 60 & 90 minutes

<200

<200

<200

120 minutes

<145

<140

<140

Impaired Fasting Glucose


When a person has a fasting glucose equal to or greater than 110 and less
than 126 mg/dl, they are said to have impaired fasting glucose. This is
considered a risk factor for future diabetes, and will likely trigger another

Impaired Glucose Tolerance

A person is said to have impaired glucose tolerance when the 2-hour


glucose results from the oral glucose tolerance test are greater than or
equal to 140 but less than 200 mg/dl. This is also considered a risk factor
for future diabetes. There has recently been discussion about lowering the
upper value to 180 mg/dl to diagnose more mild diabetes to allow earlier
intervention and hopefully prevention of diabetic complications.
Diabetes
A person has diabetes when oral glucose tolerance tests show that the
blood glucose level at 2 hours is equal to or more than 200 mg/dl. This
must be confirmed by a second test (any of the three) on another day.
There has recently been discussion about lowering the upper value to 180
mg/dl to diagnose more people with mild diabetes to allow earlier
intervention and hopefully prevention of diabetic complications.
Gestational Diabetes
A woman has gestational diabetes when she is pregnant and has any two
of the following: a fasting plasma glucose of more than 105 mg/dl, a 1-hour
glucose level of more than 190 mg/dl, a 2-hour glucose level of more than
165 mg/dl, or a 3-hour glucose level of more than 145 mg/dl.

Discussion:
Drugs may affect OGTT results
Amphetamines.
Arginine.
Benzodiazepines.
Beta-adrenergic blockers.
Chlorthalidone.
Clofibrate.
Corticosteroids.
Dextrothyroxine.
Diazoxide.
Epinephrine.
Furosemide.
Glucose I.V.
Insulin.
Lithium.
MAO inhibitors.
Nicotinic acid (large doses).
Oral contraceptives (estrogen-progestogen combination).
Oral hypoglycemics.
Phenolphthalein.

Phenothiazines.
Phenytoin.
Thiazide diuretics.
Triamterene.
Other factors that may affect test results
Ethanol.
Caffeine.
Recent infection.
Fever.
Pregnancy.
Acute illness.
People over age 50 tend toward decreasing carbohydrate tolerance, which may cause
conflicting results.
Cushing's disease, hemochromo-cytosis, pheochromocytoma, injury to central nervous system,
tumor of pancreas islet cells, malabsorption, Addison's disease, hypothyroidism, hypopituitarism.
Reduced carbohydrate intake for several days before the test.
Failure to follow dietary and exercise restrictions.
QUESTIONS:
a. What are the indications of OGTT ?
b. What are the prerequisites of OGTT ?
c. Draw a graph of a normal glucose tolerance.

Glycated Hemoglobins
Introduction:
Glycohemoglobin (GHb, glycated hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin) is a generic term for
hemoglobin bound irreversibly (ketoamine form) to glucose. Often, the term is used to mean total
glycated hemoglobin, and sometimes to mean hemoglobin A1c.
Total glycated hemoglobin (Total GHb) refers to all the glycated hemoglobins, including glycated
hemoglobin variants. Total glycated hemoglobin is usually determined by affinity chromatography or
immunassays.
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is the major subfraction of the glycated normal hemoglobin (HbA1).
Determination of HbA1c is usually achieved by ion-exchange HPLC or gel electrophoresis.
Objectives:
It is to know the importance of glycated hemoglobin as a long term monitoring test which may be used
to help controlling the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
Types of Glycated hemoglobins:
HbA1a1 = Hb + Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP)
HbA1a2 = Hb + Glucose-6-phosphate
HbA1b

= Hb + Pyruvic acid

HbA1c

= Hb + Glucose (N-terminal of -chain)

HbA1d

= Hb + Glucose ( internal a.a. of /- chain)

Using GHb :
Monitoring blood glucose is a key component of successful diabetes management. With the availability
of self-monitoring and HbA1C testing, laboratory testing for fasting glucose and 2-hour post-75g glucose
load should no longer be used routinely to assess glucose control. Laboratory measurement of glucose,
however, may be useful to verify the accuracy of home glucose monitoring equipment or when there has
been a loss of diabetic control.
HbA1C measurement provides a quantitative and reliable measure of glycemic status and control over an
extended period of time, thereby complementing day-to-day monitoring. HbA 1C levels are a better (and
less expensive) measure of long-term glucose control than repeated fasting and p.c. glucose levels.
Over the life of a red blood cell (which averages 120 days), a fraction of hemoglobin will become
covalently bound to glucose and other sugar molecules. This reaction occurs non-enzymatically and at a
rate which is proportional to the concentration of glucose in the blood. HbA 1C is the largest single
component of these glycated hemoglobins.

N.B. Blood Glucose level reflects the previous few hours glycemic state, glycated Albumin reflects 10
14 days glycemic state, while HbA1c reflects the longest (2-3 months) glycemic state.
Methods:
There are currently four main techniques for determining glycated hemoglobins:
1. Cation-exchange chromatography - separates hemoglobins using HPLC based on net charge
as a result of glycation;
2. Gel electrophoresis;
3. Affinity chromatography - separates total glycated hemoglobins by binding to solid-phase
dihydroxyborate;
4. Immunoassay - based on binding to specific antibodies.
Experiment # 3: Estimation of HbA1c by using affinity chromatography column
Principle:
In a chromatography column, the hemoglobins in a hemolysed sample is bound by different affinity to
dihydroxyborate. Elution of HbA1c is carried out by phosphate buffer, while the other hemoglobins
separate (elute) after by sodium chloride solution.
Procedure:
Calculation: % HbA1c =

A1 X 100

/A1 + ( 4.75 X A2)

Reference ranges:
Degree of glucose control

Total GHb

Hb A1c

Normal (non-diabetic)

< 7%

< 6%

Near normoglycemic

7 to 8%

6 to 7%

Diabetes Control and Compliance Trial (DCCT) therapeutic goal

Less than 7%

In good control

8 to 9%

7 to 8%

Actions suggested

9 to 11%

8 to 9%

Not in control

> 11 %

> 9%

The determination of a glycated hemoglobin level may assist in the initial diagnosis of diabetes, or it
may be used to indicate the degree of long-term diabetic control in diabetic patients. The significance of
a low glycated hemoglobin level has not been established.
Annual HbA1c < 1.1 times the upper limit of normal (8.8%), suggesting less likely occurring
complications.

Annual HbA1c > 1.7 times the upper limit of normal (13.5%), suggesting more likely occurring
complications.
Correlation with Mean Blood Glucose Levels
A single fasting blood glucose measurement only gives an indication of the patient's immediate past
(last 1 to 2 hours) condition, and may not represent the true status of blood glucose regulation. In
contrast, the level of glycated hemoglobin is directly related to the average glucose concentration over
the life-span of the hemoglobin in the circulation.
Various formulae have been proposed to demonstrate the correlation between the mean blood glucose
(MBG) and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).
MBG mg/dl = (33.3 X HbA1c) - 86
Or, MBG mg/dl = 10 ( HbA1c +4 )
Discussion:
Causes of elevated HbA1c:
-

Uncontrolled D.M.
HbF

Triglycerides

Lead toxicity

iron anemia

Splenectomy

CRF Hemodialysis

Causes of decreased HbA1c:


-

Causes of RBCs life span ( hemolytic or hemorrhagic)


Hemodilution (e.g. pregnancy)

Questions:
-

Give the objectives of glycated hemoglobin estimation.


Write down different methods for the determination of glycated hemoglobin.

What is the principle for the determination of glycated hemoglobin by chromatography ?

Lipid Profile
Introduction:
Some beneficial aspects of lipids include the following: energy course, function and structural
components of cell membranes, and precursor compound to many important substances such
as vitamin D and steroid (sex) hormones.
With evidence of a link between elevated lipids and atherosclerosis (also known as
arteriosclerosis or atherothrombosis), there is increase interest from both the medical and lay
community in the battery of tests commonly ordered as a lipid profile. Preparation for having
blood collected for lipid testing should include a 12-14 hour overnight fast.
Objectives:
- The contribution of hypercholesterolemia to coronary heart disease (CHD) risk, including the
importance of elevations in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, ratio of total to
HDL cholesterol.
- The classification of dyslipidemias, including who to screen, and how often
- The available diagnostic studies and their use, particularly determinations of HDL, LDL and
total cholesterol, as well as the need to test for other cardiovascular risk factors .
Experiment # 4:Glycerol-Phosphate Oxidase method for Triglycerides
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Sample triglycerides incubated with lipoproteinlipase (LPL), liberate glycerol and free fatty acids.
Glycerol is converted to glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) and adenosine-5-diphosphate (ADP) by glycerol
kinase and ATP. Glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) is then converted by glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase
(GPO) to dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DAP) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In the last reaction,
hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) reacts with 4-aminophenazone (4-AP) and p-chlorophenol in presence of
peroxidase (POD) to give a red colored dye:
Principle:
Triglycerides + H2O
Glycerol + ATP

lipase

Glycerol + FFA

glycerol kinase

Glycerol-3-phosphate + O2

Glycerol-3-phosphate + ADP
Glycerol-Phosphate Oxidase

H2O2 + 4- Aminoantipyrine + Chlorophenol

DHAP + H2O2
peroxidase

Quinoneimine

The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the triglycerides concentration in the sample.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Triglycerides are fats that provide energy for the cell. Like cholesterol, they are delivered to the bodys
cells by lipoproteins in the blood. A diet with a lot of saturated fats or carbohydrates will raise the
triglyceride levels. The increases in serum triglycerides are relatively non-specific. For example liver
dysfunction resulting from hepatitis, extra hepatic biliary obstruction or cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus is
associated with the increase Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should
integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR): Dissolve () the contents of one vial R 2 Enzymes into one bottle of R 1 Buffer.
Working reagent (WR): Dissolve () the contents of one vial R 2 Enzymes in 10 mL of R 1 Buffer.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
WR stability: 6 weeks at 2-8C or 1 week at room temperature (15-25C).
SAMPLES
Serum or heparinized or EDTA plasma1.
Stability of the sample: 5 days at 2-8C .
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 505 nm (490-550)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 cm light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37C / 15-25C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

Standard Blank
1.0
1.0
10
----

WR (mL)
Standard (L)
Sample (L)

4. Mix and incubate for 5 min. at 37C or 10 min. at room temperature.


5. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and Standard, against the Blank. The colour is stable for at
least 30 minutes.
CALCULATIONS
A Sample x 200 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL triglycerides in the sample
A Standard
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.0113= mmol/L.
Reference ranges:
Normal Fasting blood triglycerides = 60 160 mg/dl

It is considered normal as long as it is below 200 mg/dl


Discussion:
-Types of hyperlipidaemias

QUESTIONS:
a. Give the different methods for the determination of triglycerides.
b. Write a short note on hypertriglyceridemia.
c. Give the upper cut off value of triglyceride for a diagnosis of
hypertriglyceridemia.

DETERMINATION OF CHOLESTEROL:
INTRODUCTION:
Cholesterol is a waxy substances used in every cell membrane you have and as a base for
several hormones. The recommended daily allowance for dietary cholesterol intake is 300 milligrams.
Most cells have some capacity to synthesize cholesterol. The largest percentage of synthesized
cholesterol is made in the liver. Cholesterol lowering medications prescribed by physicians inhibit the
synthesis of cholesterol by the liver, thereby reducing the level in the blood stream.
OBJECTIVES:
The estimation of cholesterol along with other parameters of lipid profile is necessary for the
classification and diagnosis of lipemias
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
The cholesterol present in the sample originates a coloured complex, according to the following
reaction: The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the cholesterol concentration in the sample
Principle (Experiment #5):
Cholesterol esters + H2O
Cholesterol + O2
H2O2 + 4-AAP + Phenol

Cholesterol esterase

Cholesterol Oxidase

Peroxidase

Cholesterol + FA

Cholesterol-3-one + H2O2
Quinonimine

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is found in all body cells. The liver makes all of the cholesterol
the body needs to form cell membranes and to make certain hormones. The determination of serum
cholesterol is one of the important tools in the diagnosis an classification of lipemia. High blood
cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart disease5,6. Clinical diagnosis should not be made
on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR): Dissolve () the contents of one vial R 2 Enzymes in one bottle of R 1 Buffer.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
(WR) is stable: 4 months at 2-8C or 40 days at 15-25C. Avoid direct sunlight.
SAMPLES
Serum or plasma1,2: Stability of the sample for 7 days at 2-8C or freezing at 20C will keep samples
stable for a few months.
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 505 nm (500-550)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1 cm light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .37C /15-25C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.

13. Pipette into a cuvette:

Sample Standard Blank


1.0
1.0
1.0
-10
-10
---

WR (mL)
Standard (L)
Sample (L)

14. Mix and incubate for 5 min. at 37C or 10 min. at room temperature.
25. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and Standard, against the Blank. The colour is stable
for at least 60 minutes.
CALCULATIONS
A (Sample) x 200 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL cholesterol in the sample
A (Standard)
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.0258= mmol/L.
*Normal range: Desirable blood cholesterol level < 200 mg/dl
Suspect to vascular and CHD 200 240 mg/dl
High risk group for CHD > 240 mg/dl

Risk evaluation:
Normal
Less than 200 mg/dL
Borderline mg/dL 200-239
High
mg/dL and above 240

LDL Cholesterol
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Direct determination of serum LDLc (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels without the need for
any pre-treatment or centrifugation steps. The assay takes place in two steps.
1 Elimination of lipoprotein no-LDL
Cholesterol esters + H2O

Cholesterol Oxidase

Cholesterol + O2
H2O2

Cholesterol esterase

catalase

Cholesterol + FA
Cholesterol-3-one + H2O2

2 H2O + O2

2 Measurement of LDLc
Cholesterol esters + H2O
Cholesterol + O2
H2O2 + 4-AAP + Phenol

Cholesterol esterase

Cholesterol Oxidase

Peroxidase

Cholesterol + FA

Cholesterol-3-one + H2O2
Quinonimine + 4 H2O2

The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the LDLc concentration in the sample.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The LDLc particle is lipoproteins that transport cholesterol to the cells. Often called bad cholesterol
because high levels are risk factor for coronary heart disease and are associated with obesity, diabetes
and nephrosis 1,5,6. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate
clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
- R 1 and R 2: Are ready to use. HDLc/LDLc CAL: Dissolve the contents with 1 mL of distilled water.
Cap vial and mix gently to dissolve contents.
SAMPLES
Serum : After sampling, the test should be performed without delay. Repeated freezing and thawing
should be avoided. Stability of the sample: 7 days at 2-8C .
PROCEDURE
. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 600 (590-700) nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .1 cm. light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

R1(L)
Standard (L)
Sample (L)

Blank Standard
300
300
------4
------- --------

Sample
300
-----4

4. Mix and incubate for 5 min. at 37C.


5. Add:
R2 (L) 100

100

100

6. Mix and incubate for 5 min. at 37C. 7. Read the absorbance (A), against the Blank.
CALCULATIONS
(A) Sample x Standard.conc. = mg/dL of LDLc in the sample
(A) Standard
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.02586
. REFERENCE VALUES
Levels of the risk
Desirable < 100 mg/dL
Medium 130-160 mg/dL
High > 160 mg/dL

HDL cholesterol
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
The very low density (VLDL) and low density (LDL) lipoproteins from serum or plasma are precipitated
by phosphotungstate in the presence of magnesium ions. After removed by centrifugation the clear
supernatant containing high density lipoproteins (HDL) is used for the determination of HDL cholesterol
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
HDL particles carry cholesterol from the cells back to the liver. HDL is known as good cholesterol
because high levels are thought to lower the risk of heart disease. A low HDL cholesterol levels, is
considered a greater heart disease risk. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it
should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
Procedure :

RT incubation for 10 min

PTA + B. sample

Centrifugation for 10 min. at 4000 rpm

Supernatant cholesterol + Chol.Oxidase reagent - HDL- Chol. Conc.

SAMPLES
Serum or plasma1: Free of hemolysis. Removed from the blood clot as soon as possible.
Stability : HDL Cholesterol is stable for 7 days at 2-8C .
PROCEDURE
Precipitation
11. Pipette into a centrifuge tube:

100 R (L)
1.0 Sample (mL)
12. Mix well; allow to stand for 10 min at room temperature.
23. Centrifuge at 4000 r.p.m. for 20 min or 2 min at 12000 r.p.m..
34. Collect the supernatant and test HDLc.

Test
Following the Cholesterol reagent instructions.
CALCULATIONS
- With Factor:
A505 nm Sample x 320 = mg/Dl HDLc in the sample.
A546 nm Sample x 475 = mg/Dl HDLc in the sample
Calculation of LDL-cholesterol
According to the Friedewald Formula:
LDL cholesterol = Total cholesterol - Triglycerides -HDL cholesterol
5

Questions:
a. Write a short note on Hyperlipidemia.
b. Which one of the two HDL/LDL is more dangerous to health and
give reason.
c. Which diet can cause increase in HDL-Chol ?
Write the equation for HDL-cholesterol calculated from TG, Total Chol.& LDL.

Laboratory Renal Function Tests

I- Urea Estimation & Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)


Introduction:
Kidney problems are very common in clinical medicine. Essentially all seriously sick patients will
need their kidney function evaluated during the course of their illnesses.
After history and physical exam are complete, the initial steps in checking patients' kidneys are
performing the following tests: (1) urinalysis (2) serum creatinine (3) serum urea ("blood
urea nitrogen", "BUN"). Next, you may check (4) ability to concentrate urine.
Both creatinine and BUN are included on the common chemical profiles. You can check the
ability to concentrate urine using a hygrometer, refractrometer, or dipstick.
Objectives:
Methods:
1- Chemical (direct) method:
Urea + Diacetyl monoxime(DAM)

Diacetyl-Urea

Diacetyl-Urea + Fe3+ +acidic pH

Yellow Diazine (measured at 540)

2-Enzymatic (indirect) method:


Urea + H2O
Yellow Orange

(at 540 nm)

Berthlots

Urease

CO2+ NH3

( HgI2
+KI)

Kinetic
Multienzymatic
method

NH3

Conductivity
difference between
non-ionized urea and
ionized ammonia

Experiment # 6 (Modified Berthlots Reaction):

pH indicator
dye (dry
chemistry)

Ammonia
detecting
electrode

PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD


Urea in the sample is hydrolized enzymatically into ammonia (NH4+) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Ammonia ions formed reacts with salicylate and hypochlorite (NaClO), in presence of the catalyst
nitroprusside, to form a green indophenol:
The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the urea concentration in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Urea is the final result of the metabolism of proteins; it is formed in the liver from its destruction.
Elevated urea can appear in blood (uremia) in: diets with excess of proteins, renal diseases, heart
failure, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, dehydration or renal obstruction1,6,7. Clinical diagnosis should not
be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
Principle:
Urea + H2O

Urease

CO2+ NH3

NH3 + Na-salicylate + Na-hypochlorite +Na-nitoprusside

Indophenol

PREPARATION
- Working reagent (WR): Dissolve one tablet R 3 Enzymes in one bottle of R 1 Buffer. Cap and mix
gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 4 weeks in the refrigerator (2-8C) or 7 days at room temperature (15-25C).
- R 2 NaClO is ready to use
:
SAMPLES
1- Serum or heparinized plasma: Do not use ammonium salts or fluoride as anticoagulants.
2- Urine: Dilute sample 1/50 in distilled water. Mix. Multiply results by 50 (dilution factor). Preserve
urine samples at pH < 4.
Urea is stable at 2-8C for 5 days;
PROCEDURE
11. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . 580 nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1 cm light path
Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 37C / 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
13. Pipette into a cuvette:

Blank
1.0
WR (mL)
-Standard (L)
-Sample (L)

nk

14. Mix and incubate 5 min at 37C or 10 min at room temperature (15-25C).
25. Pipette:

R 2 (mL)
16. Mix and incubate 5 min at 37C or 10 min at room temperature (15-25C).
27. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and calibrator, against the Blank. The colour is
stable for at least 30 minutes at 15-25C.
CALCULATIONS
(A) Sample x 50 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL urea in the sample
(A) Standard
10 mg/L urea BUN divided by 0.466 = 21 mg/L urea = 0.36 mmol/L urea.
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.1665 = mmol/L.
REFERENCE VALUES1
Serum : 15- 45 mg/dL (2.49-7.49 mmol/L)
Urine : 20 - 35 gr/24 h.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) 8 25 mg/dl
Interpretation:
Interpretation of the BUN is usually straightforward, though there are a few things to remember.
#Increased BUN is, by definition, azotemia. It is due either to increased protein catabolism or impaired
kidney function.
*Increased protein catabolism results from:

a really heavy protein meal (Kebda, El-Bek, etc.)


severe stress (myocardial infarction, high fever, etc.)
upper GI bleeding (blood being digested and absorbed)

*Impaired kidney function may be "prerenal", "renal", or "postrenal".

Prerenal azotemia results from underperfusion of the kidney: dehydration,


hemorrhage, shock, congestive heart failure
Renal azotemia has several familiar causes: acute tubular necrosis, chronic
interstitial nephritis, glomerulonephritis, etc.
Postrenal azotemia results from obstruction of urinary flow: prostate
trouble, stones, surgical mishaps, tumors

N.B. In acute renal failure, BUN increases around 20 mg/dL each day (*estimates
vary; range of increase is 10-50 mg/dL daily).
#Decreased BUN

Lack of protein (celiac disease, some patients with nephrotic syndrome)


Severe liver disease (end-stage cirrhosis, yellow atrophy, really bad hepatitis,
halothane or acetaminophen toxicity, enzyme defects)

Overhydration (iatrogenic, psychogenic water-drinking)

Discussion:
-Physiological & Biochemical Background:
-Pathological & Disease Correlation:
Questions:
-

Write the different methods for estimation of blood urea?


Calculate BUN on estimation of blood urea.
Mention causes of hyperazotemia.

II- Plasma Creatinine Estimation


Introduction:
Creatinine is the end product of muscle metabolism. It is excreted through the kidneys and changes in
creatinine are an early indicator of kidney disease as well as being seen in severe muscle damage or
wasting diseases or with many medications such as antibiotics. this test can be performed on
specimens drawn from patients in either the fasting or non fasting state.
Methods:
1- Direct Chemical methods:
a) Jaffe method : See the principle and procedure (Experiment )
b) DNB method (used in dry chemistry:
Creatinine +Dinitrobenzoic acid +alkaline pH

purplish rose

2- Indirect Enzymatic methods:


a) Deaminase method (One enzyme step method):
Creatinine

Deaminase

methyl hydantoin + NH3


(detected by different techniques)

b) Amidohydrolase method ( multi-enzymatic method):


Creatinine. Amidohydrolase

- Creatinine
- Creatine

Creatine kinase

- Creatine-p +ATP
- ADP + P-enol pyrovate (PEP)

Creatine

Creatine -p

Creatine +ADP
ATP +Pyruvate

LDH
- Pyruvate + NADH+H+
Lactate + NAD
(with diminished absorbance at 340 nm)

PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD


The assay is based on the reaction of creatinine with sodium picrate as described by Jaff. Creatinine
reacts with alkaline picrate forming a red complex. The time interval chosen for measurements avoids
interferences from other serum constituents. The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the
creatinine concentration in the sample.

Principle (Jaffe Method):


Creatinine + Picric acid + alkaline pH
2,4,6 trinitrophenol
(Janovskis complex)
measured at 520 nm

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Creatinine is the result of the degradation of the creatine, component of muscles, it can be transformed
into ATP, that is a source of high energy for the cells. The creatinine production depends on the
modification of the muscular mass, and it varies little and the levels usually are very stable. Is excreted
by the kidneys. With progressive renal insufficiency there is retention in blood of urea, creatinine and
uric acid. Elevate creatinine level may be indicative of renal insufficiency1,4,5. Clinical diagnosis should
not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Mix equal volumes of R 1 Picric Reagent and R 2 Alkaline reagent.
The working reagent is stable for 10 days at 15-25C.
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 492 nm 1.80.
SAMPLES
1- Serum or heparinized plasma.
Creatinine stability: 24 hours at 2-8C.
1- Urine: Dilute sample 1/50 with distilled water. Mix. Multiply results by 50 (dilution factor);
Creatinine stability: 7 days at 2-8C.
PROCEDURE
11. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 492 nm (490-510)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 cm. light path
Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37C / 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
23. Pipette into a cuvette:

ard Blank
1.0
WR (mL)
-Standard (L)
-Sample (L)
1
4. Mix and start stopwatch.

25. Read the absorbance (A1) after 30 seconds and after 90 seconds (A2) of the sample addition.
36. Calculate: A= A2 A1.
CALCULATIONS
A Sample A Blank
x 2 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL of creatinine in the sample
A Standard ABlank
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 88.4 = mol/L. l
REFERENCE VALUES

plasma
1.8 123.7) mol/L 1,4 - 0,7
3.0 97.2 ) mol/L 1,1 - 0,6
5 mg/Kg/24 h
= 88 177 mol/Kg/24 h 20 - 10
= 71 177 mol/Kg/24 h 18 8

Male
Female
Male
Female

Interpretation: Causes of renal failure


Discussion:
Physiological & Biochemical Background:
Other Renal Function Tests:

Tutorial
Creatinine clearance : is widely used to approximate glomerular filtration. You need a timed urine
sample and a blood sample.
The clearance of a substance is the volume of plasma "cleared" of that substance per unit time.
Clearance =

(conc. in urine) x (urine volume)


(conc. in plasma) X time of urine collection (min.).

In deciding how to "time" your collection, remember that you don't really need to collect urine for
a full 24 hours. One group got more reliable results by a controlled collection over 4 hours,
monitoring body position (kept them lying down) and hydration with body surface area
measurement.
Creatinine clearance is not a perfect measure of GFR, because some is not filtered and some is
secreted into the proximal tubule. These fractions tend to cancel each other out in health, but
when GFR drops below 30 mL/min, tubular secretion approaches or even exceeds the amount
filtered at the glomerulus.
*Also, lots and lots of red meat (protein and creatinine-rich) can lead to overestimates (maybe
30%) in GFR in renal failure patients.
Reference range for creatinine clearance is 90-120 mL/min for young adults; values tend to fall
by around 0.5 mL/year over age 20, worse for hypertensives .
*Formulas to adjust "normal" for body surface area have been devised, etc. For kids, a
height/creatinine ratio of 2.1 or less is normal. GFR for adults can be estimated by various
formulas; try 1.12 x Creatinine Clearence - 20.6.
Another formula to correct the clearance according to body surface area is {Corrected
Cr.Cl. = Cr.Cl. X (1.7/ body surface area)}
*Whether or not "corrections" are applied, creatinine clearance is a pretty good estimate of
glomerular filtration rate except at very low values, when tubular secretion of creatinine
become proportionately greater.

DETERMINATION OF URIC ACID


INTRODUCTION:
Uric acid is apurine compound that circulates in plasma as sodium urate and is excreted by
kidney. It is derived from the break down of nucleic acids that are ingested or come from the destruction
of tissue cells; it is also synthesized in the body from simple compounds as shown in figure.

OBJECTIVES:

To know the uric acid level in the body


To diagnose a case of Hyperuricemia (Gouts)

Chemical Method (Phosphotungestic acid Method?)


Enzymatic Method

METHODS:

PRINCIPLE {Enzymatic Colorimetric (Uricase Method)}:


Uric acid is oxidized by uricase to allantoine and hydrogen peroxide (2H2O2), which under the influence
of POD, 4aminophenazone (4-AP) and 2-4 Dichlorophenol sulfonate (DCPS) forms a red quinoneimine
compound:
Uric acid + 2H2O + O2 Uricase Allantoine + CO2 + 2H2O2
2H2O2 + 4-AP + DCPS POD

Quinoneimine+ 4H2O

The intensity of the red color formed is proportional to the uric acid concentration in the sample.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Uric acid and its salts are end products of the purine metabolism. With progressive renal insufficiency,
there is retention in blood of urea, creatinine and uric acid. Elevate uric acid level may be indicative of
renal insufficiency and is commonly associated with gout Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a
single test result; it should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR): Dissolve the contents of one vial R 2 Enzymes in one bottle R 1 Buffer. Cap
and mix gently to dissolve contents. (WR) is stable after reconstitution 1 month at 2-8C or 10 days at
room temperature.
SAMPLES Serum or plasma: Stability 3-5 days at 2-8C or 6 months at 20C.
- Urine (24 h)1: Stability 4 days at 15-25C, pH >8. Dilute sample 1/50 in distilled water. Mix. Multiply
results by 50 (dilution factor);
If urine is cloudy; warm the specimen to 60C for 10 min to dissolve precipitated urates and uric acid. Do
not refrigerate.

PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .520 nm (490-550)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 1 cm light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37C / 15-25C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:
WR (ml)
Standard (L)
Sample (L)

Blank
1.0
-------------

Standard
1.0
25
---------

Sample
1.0
-------25

4. Mix and incubate for 5 min at 37C or 10 min at 15-25C.


5. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and Standard, against the Blank.
The colour is stable for at least 30 minutes.
CALCULATIONS
Serum or plasma
(A) Samplex 6 (Standard conc.)= mg/dL uric acid in the sample
(A) Standard
Urine 24 h
A) Samplex x 6 x vol. (dL) urine 24 h =mg/24 h uric acid
Standard
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 59.5= mol/L.
REFERENCE VALUES:
Serum or plasma:
Women 2.5 - 6.8 mg/dL = 149 405 mol/L
Men 3.6 - 7.7 mg/dL =214 458 mol/L
Urine: 250 - 750 mg/24 h = 1.49 - 4.5 mmol/24 h
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
Hyperuricemia (Gout)

DISCUSSION:
Causes of elevated uric acidemia
QUESTIONS:
1.Give the principle for the determination of serum uric acid by uricase
method.
2. Write a short note on Uric acid metabolism.

3. Explain the hyperuricemia.


PRERENAL VS. RENAL AZOTEMIA :
A very common clinical problem is to distinguish prerenal azotemia (due to shock, dehydration,
CHF -- also "hepatorenal syndrome") from renal azotemia (acute tubular necrosis, "renal
shutdown".)
Either could be the cause when a patient has been hypotensive and now is azotemic and
oliguric. The management is different.
One older technique is to calculate the BUN/creatinine ratio. This is normally between 10 and
20.
Values over 20, suggest prerenal azotemia rather than acute tubular necrosis.
High values are also seen postrenal azotemia and upper GI bleeding.
In fact, a high BUN/creatinine ratio is a common finding, especially in the elderly, and a marker
for ill-health .
Another approach is to measure sodium on a urine specimen.
In prerenal azotemia, urine sodium is low (the kidney responds to low blood flow by "trying to
retain all the sodium it can.")
In acute tubular necrosis, urine sodium is higher (the renal tubules are unable to concentrate or
dilute the glomerular filtrate effectively.)
Urinary sodium under 20 mEq/L suggests prerenal azotemia (or hepatorenal syndrome, etc.);
urinary sodium over 40 mEq/L suggests acute tubular necrosis.
*A further refinement, currently popular, is to measure the fractional excretion of filtered
sodium, approximated by:

Values less than 1% indicate prerenal azotemia; values over 2% indicate acute tubular
necrosis.
Several other factors can complicate the picture in such patients.
Diuretics will increase the excretion of filtered sodium, while secondary hyperaldosteronism (as
in cirrhosis) will decrease sodium excretion.
In acute tubular necrosis due to myoglobinuria, sodium excretion is low (the tubules are
plugged, not damaged.)

*Tip: If you obtain urine by squeezing a diaper or the absorptive balls you placed into the diaper, your
estimate of urine creatinine will be low because these things absorb creatinine .
Urine Protein/creatinine ratio
Urine protein/creatinine ratio (UP/UCr) is used to calculate urine protein loss into the urine
without a need for 24 hour urine collection. Compared to conventional 24 hour- urinary protein
value, UP/UCr is less time consuming and less accurate.
Generally with proteinuria, UP/UCr is greater than 1.0.

LESS FAMILIAR RENAL FUNCTION TESTS


1. Blood pH
Changes in acid-base balance is observed frequently in renal failure especially when advanced.
2. Lipids
Hyperlipidaemia can occur with renal disease, such as nephrotic syndrome. Increased hepatic
lipoprotein synthesis and hypoalbuminaemia is proposed in the pathogenesis.
3. Plasma protein
Generally the concentration of plasma protein is elevated due to dehydration but can be
reduced in primary glomerular diseases such as glomerulonephritis and renal amyloidosis.

4. Amylase and lipase


Elevated plasma lipase and amylase levels can be observed in dogs with renal disease,
because these two enzymes are eliminated by the kidneys.
5. Total Red blood cell
In chronic renal disease, non-regenerative anemia is commonly observed. It is mainly due to a
reduced erythropoietin level secondary to the loss of renal parenchyma.Other causes of anemia
in renal disease include haemorrhage, shorter the life span of erythrocytes and bone marrow
depression.
6. N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase ("glucosaminidase", NAG) is a lysosomal enzyme (MW
140,000) found in serum and urine. Urinary NAG is a proposed marker for tubular disease,

especially subtle industrial poisoning, acute pyelonephritis, early acute tubular necrosis, and
early transplant rejection. (These functions are now largely taken over by beta-2 microglobulin).
7. Adenosine Deaminase Binding Protein is an enzyme from the brush borders of the
proximal tubule. Like NAG, its presence in urine indicates tubular disease.
8. Alkaline phosphatase in urine comes from the proximal tubular brush border .
9. Beta-2 microglobulin (beta-2-m) is the short chain of the HLA class I proteins. In health, it is
freely filtered by the glomerulus, and fully reabsorbed by the proximal tubule.
Serum beta-2-m has been suggested as a measure of glomerular filtration rate, similar
to creatinine. Obviously this isn't a good idea for patients with tissue necrosis,
lymphomas, etc.
Urine beta-2-m has found widespread acceptance as an research tool. It appears if
levels in the serum and glomerular filtrate exceed what the proximal tubule can
reabsorb (more than 4.5 mg/L) or if there is renal tubular disease. It is very sensitive as
an indicator of the latter.
10. Tubular functions: Urinary amino acids and maximum concentrating ability are
sensitive screens for tubular damage. Lithium clearance is a researcher's way of estimating
delivery to the distal tubule.
11. Isotope scans exist to compare the function of the kidneys. These may prove a valuable
supplement to the intravenous pyelogram. More recently, the 12. color Doppler sonogram,
which is cheap and portable, has proved even more useful than these scans in transplant
patients. Most recent of all, there's a Tc99 scanner that monitors glomerular filtration minute by
minute, suitable for the intensive care .
13. Positron emission tomography is the latest way of measuring renal blood flow.

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF URINE


While not a "blood test", checking urine specific gravity provides very important information
about tubular function and hydration.
People in our culture drink relatively little fluid. Thus "normal" people have fairly concentrated
urine (SG greater than 1.010). Of course, the same is true of patients in prerenal azotemia (high
urinary specific gravity, low or zero urinary sodium).
Patients with tubular disease ("renal azotemia", i.e., acute tubular necrosis, really bad bilateral
pyelonephritis or interstitia nephritis, or on diuretics, or with end-stage kidney) will have
isosthenuria.
Patients getting lots of fluid by IV, or with diabetes insipidus, or enthusiastic water-drinkers
(asthmatics, crazies) will have low urine specific gravity.

Serum and Urine Osmolality


The term osmolality refers to the osmotic concentration of a fluid. The osmolality of serum, urine, or any
other body fluid depends on the number of active ions or molecules in a solution. In laboratory reports,
osmolality is expressed as "so many" milliosmoles per kilogram of water (mOsm/kg water). With a
standard measurement of osmoles and of milliosmoles for clinical studies, the precise concentration of
active solutes in the serum and urine can be calculated. Tests of both serum and urine osmolality can
yield important information about a patient's ability to maintain a normal fluid balance status.
Sodium, blood urea nitrogen, and blood glucose levels are major factors in determining serum
osmolality. In severe dehydration serum osmolality will be increased, as there is less water in proportion
to solutes in the serum or blood. Urine osmolality, like specific gravity, is a measurement of the
concentration of urine. Urine osmolality reflects the total number of osmotically active particles in the
urine, without regard to the size or weight of the particles. Substances such as glucose, proteins, or
dyes increase the urinary specific gravity. Therefore, urine osmolality is a more accurate measurement
of urine concentration than specific gravity, and urine osmolality can be compared with the serum
osmolality to obtain an accurate picture of a patient's fluid balance.

Reference values for osmolality:

Serum osmolality: 282 - 295 mOsm/kg water; a serum osmolality of 285 mOsm correlates with
a urine specific gravity of 1.010
Urine osmolality: extreme range of 50 - 1400 mOsm/kg water, but average is about 500 - 800
mOsm. After an overnight fast, the urine osmolality should be at least 3 times the serum
osmolality

Increased serum and urine osmolality (hyperosmolality) levels are seen in:

Renal disease
Congestive heart failure
Addison's disease
Dehydration
Diabetes insipidus
Hypercalcemia
Diabetes mellitus/hyperglycemia
Hypernatremia
Alcohol ingestion
Mannitol therapy
Azotemia

Decreased serum and urine osmolality (hypoosmolality) levels are seen in:

Sodium loss due to diuretic use and a low salt diet


Hyponatremia
Adrenocortical insufficiency

SIADH
Excessive water replacement/overhydration/water intoxication

Panic values for serum osmolality are values of less than 240 mOsm or greater than 321 mOsm. A
serum of osmolality of 384 mOsm produces stupor. If the serum osmolality rises over 400 mOsm, the
patient may have grand mal seizures. Values greater than 420 mOsm are fatal.
When the serum osmolality is normal or increased, the kidneys are conserving water. As the serum
osmolality rises, the urine osmolality should also rise. The higher the number of millosmoles in the urine,
the more concentrated the urine; this is the expected physiological response to dehydration
This table shows the relationship between serum and urine osmolality and the clinical significance of
laboratory values.

Serum Osmolality
Normal values:
282-295mOsm
Normal or increased
Decreased
Normal
Increased or normal

Urine Osmolality
Normal values:
500-800mOsm
Increased
Decreased
Decreased
Decreased (with no increase in
fluid intake)

Decreased

Increased

Clinical Significance
Fluid volume deficit
Fluid volume excess
Increased fluid intake or diuretics
Kidneys unable to concentrate
urine or lack of ADH (diabetes
insipidus)
SIADH

Urine Concentration tests:


An increase in plasma osmolarity stimulates ADH secretion by the posterior pituitary gland. ADH
stimulates renal water resorption and increases urine SG. These tests are designed to identify
concentrating defects in the kidney. They are indicated in animals that show polydipsia/polyuria (PD/PU)
without azotaemia and dehydration and are contraindicated in dehydrated animals, pregnant animals or
azotaemic animals with diluted urine.

Liver Function Tests (LFT)


Albumin estimation
===========
Introduction:
Albumin is made in the liver and is responsible for maintaining proper fluid balances. Too little albumin
may result in fluids "leaking" out of the blood vessels into surrounding spaces such as the abdomen.
Decreased amounts of albumin can occur when the liver is not making enough or if albumin is being lost
through the kidneys. Increases in albumin do not occur naturally but can be seen in patients who had
received albumin suspensions.
Methods
1-Precipitation method
2-Electrophoresis
3-Globulin Tryptophan content method
4-Immunochemical methods.
5-Dye binding methods
I) Precipitation method
*Use serum only
*Not applied for automation
*Used now for separation & manufacturing albumin .
*Precipitation is done by salting out of globulins &then albumin in the supernatant is
measured using a protein estimation method.
II) Electrophoresis
===========
*Separation of Albumin from the major classes of protein in an electrical field & the staining %is
obtained .
Calculation of Albumin = % Albumin X Total Protein
*Difficult method for Automation.
*It is a quantitative method but tends to over estimate Albumin because albumin is the best binder of
staining dyes &the band density of alb. scanned by densitometer.
III) Globulin Tryptophan content method
==========
*In this method Tryptophan content of the globulin is fist estimated as following;
Glycoxylic acid +tryptophan (Globulin)Purple chromogen (measured at 540)
Calculation of Albumin = T.Protein - Globulin

IV) Immune chemical methods


==============
A)-Electro -immune-diffusion (EID): Considered the Reference method ,Quantitative &Manual.
*Migration of protein fractions in an electrical field through a medium contains specific antibodies to
albumin. The height of the Rocket precipitin line is correlated to albumin conc.
*Used for serum only.
B)-Radial immune diffusion (RID):By measuring the diameter of precipitin ring between albumin &its
antibodies incorporated in agarose gel.
*Used for serum &CSF. Takes long time.
C)-Turbidimetry: The reaction between albumin and its specific antibodies form complexes ,that will
decrease the light transmission through the reaction phase more than free albumin (antigen).
D)-Nephelometry:.
E)-Radio immune assay (RIA).
F)-Enzyme immune assay (ELISA)
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Albumin in the presence of bromcresol green at a slightly acid pH, produces a colour change of the
indicator from yellow-green to green-blue. The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the
albumin concentration in the sample
.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
One of the most important serum proteins produced in the liver is albumin. This molecule has an
extraordinarily wide rage of functions, including nutrition, maintenance of oncotic pressure and transport
of Ca++, bilirubin, free fatty acid, drugs and steroids. Variation in albumin levels indicate liver diseases,
malnutrition, skin lesions such as dermatitis and burns or dehydration. Clinical diagnosis should not be
made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Reagent and calibrator are ready to use
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 630 nm 0.40.
SAMPLES
Serum or plasma, free of hemolysis: Stability 1 month at 2-8C or 1 week at 15-25C.
PROCEDURE
11. Assay conditions:

Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 630 nm (600-650)


Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 cm light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
23. Pipette into a cuvette:

Blank
1.0
R (mL)
-Standard (L)
-Sample (L)
14. Mix and incubate for 10 min at room temperature (15-25C).
25. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and Standard, against the Blank.
The colour is stable 1 hour at room temperature.
CALCULATIONS
(A) Sample x 5 (Standard conc.) = g/dL albumin in the sample
(A) Standard
Conversion factor: g/dL x 144.9 = mol/L
REFERENCE VALUES
3.5 to 5.0 g/dL.

Total protein estimation

Introduction:
A Total Protein can be done on either a fasting or non fasting specimen. It is usually done as a general
screening assay since it is composed of two major fractions (albumin and globulin). Elevations or
decreases in a total protein must be investigated to find out which of the two components is causing the
problem. Since many of the next level tests may be reported as percentages or ratios, it is necessary to
have the total protein rerun at the time these tests are performed. Overall, a general reference range is
5.0 - 8.0 gram/dL.. Since this is a stable assay, the range of variation is quite small. Acceptable variation
is 1.0
If both the albumin and globulin are elevated, one possibility is dehydration or a slow down of blood
flow. If both are decreased, the most common culprit is liver function. Since both albumin and globulin
can be assayed individually, they are sometimes reported as an "AG ratio". (See albumin and globulin
for specifics.)
Patients with Waldenstrms macroglobulinemia may have total proteins above 8.5. They should
consider having tests performed on urine specimens as this will lessen the clotting problem found in the
specimen but still provide adequate answers to the physician.
1-Ultraviolet absorption method
2-Specific gravity methods for T.P.
3-Refractrometry.
4-Kjeldahl nitrogen detection method
5-CuSO4 (Cu-Pr complex) Methods

a)Phillips
or b)Lowry &Hunter
a)Titration or
a)Lowry
or

b) kinetic
b) Biuret

Normal (Reference)Ranges:
- Ammonia (Plasma on Heparin)= 15-51 ug/dl
- T.P Premature babies = begin from 3.6 g/dl
Newborns
= 4.6 -5.7 g/dl
7months -1yr.
= 5.1 -7.3 g/dl
1-2yrs.
= 5.7 -7.5 g/dl
Adults
= 6.0 - 8.0 g/dl
- Exercise &Ambulatory 0.5 g/dl to T.P (by extravasation of proteins)

1- Ultraviolet Absorption:

270 290 nm
200 -225 nm
*Used for Solutions rather than serum.
*Using Quartz Cuvette (with no scratches)
On using serum , Dilute 1:1000 with NaCl 0.15 mol/L.
This method depends on Tryptophan &Tyrosine content of the protein.
*Interference by free tyrosine,tryptophan, bil.&U.A.

2-Specific gravity method for Total proteins:


a)Phillips et al.:
*drops of serum are allowed to fall into "Universal"containers filled with CuSO4 soln. each of known
sp.gr.
(Stock soln.=159/L Sp.gr=1.1),then serial dilutions are made to get solns. of sp.gr between 1.015
1.035
At certain specific gravity a drop will not move neither up or down(=Sp.gr.of interest)
Total protein(g/dl) = 365(Sp.gr.of Int. 1.007 )
*Can estimate T.P between 3.3 10.3 g/dl
b)Column method (Lowry&Hunter):
*Using only single gradient column of mixed organic liquids with CuSO4 jacket (maintaining constant
temp.).
*It requires only one drop,which will be hanged at certain gradient .
*Like in Phillips method T.P can be calculated.
3-Refractometry method:
*This method is based on the refraction of incident light by total dissolved solids.
*A large drop of serum or urine is allowed to spread between slide &thin film and refracted rays make
sharp line dividing the dark & light fields.
*Can estimate T.P between 3.5 11 g/dl

4-Kjeldahl Method:
*The reference method
*using protein free filtrate.
*Depend on estimation of protein nitrogen.
Protein
H2SO4+Catalyst
+Na-Molybdate
NH4+
Alkaline PH
NH3
HCl(standard Sol.)
( either)

NADPH +2oxoglutarate

(Titration)

Neutral PH
(Nisselerization)

NADP + glutamate
(Monitor abs.change at 340 nm)

Concentration of total protein= detected nitrogen X100/16


= detected nitrogen X 6.25
*factor 6.25 is the result of 100/16 as each 100 g prt.16 g Nitrogen.
* Corrected pr.conc. = (pr.N2-NPN) X 6.25

5-Alkaline CUSO4 soln.Methods:


Sample
NaOH + CuSO4.
Copper 6-peptide bond protein complex

Folin(Fenol)+
Cio-Calteau(PTA+Ph-Molbdic a.)

Molybdinum blue +
Tungesten blue(at 650- 750nm)

LOWRYs Method
Sensitivity:

100 times > Biurets

Specificity:

Less specific

No. of reagents: 2 Reagents

Drug Interference
(salicylates,sulfa&tetracyclines)

K&NaTartarate(=color stabilizer)

Violet color of Cu-Pr.Complex


(at 546nm)

BIURETs Method
good for Pr. 2-12 g
specific
One reagent

Dependence on Tryptophan&Tyrosine
e.g Alb.=0.2 % Tryptophan by wt.
Glob.=2% Tryptophan by wt.

PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD


Proteins give an intensive violet-blue complex with copper salts in an alkaline medium. Iodide is
included as an antioxidant. The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the total protein
concentration in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The proteins are macromolecular organic compounds, widely distributed in the organism. They act like
structural and transport elements. The proteins of the serum are divide in two fractions, albumin and
globulins The determination of total proteins is useful in the detection of: - High protein levels caused by
hemoconcentration like in the dehydrations or increase in the concentration of specific proteins. - Low
protein level caused by hemodilution by an impared synthesis or loss (as by hemorrhage) or excessive
protein catabolism. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate
clinical and other laboratory data
PREPARATION
The reagents are ready to use
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 540 nm 0.22.
SAMPLES
Serum or heparinized plasma: Stability of the sample: 1 month at refrigerator (2-8C).
PROCEDURE
11. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 540 (530-550) nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 1 cm. light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37C / 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
23. Pipette into a cuvette:
R (mL)
Standard (L)
Sample(L)

Blank
1.0
-----------

Standard
1.0
25
---------

Sample
1.0
------25

14. Mix and incubate 5 min at 37C or 10 min at room temperature.


25. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and Standard, against the Blank.
The colour is stable for at least 30 minutes.
CALCULATIONS
(A) Samplex 7 (Standard conc.)= g/dL of total protein in the sample
(A) Standard
REFERENCE VALUES

Adults: 6.6 8.3 g/dL


Newborn: 5.2 9.1 g/dL

Bilirubin estimation
Introduction:
Bilirubin is the end product of red cell lysis and recycling of hemoglobin which is performed
in the liver. The test quantifies two different forms of bilirubin, one is the final product while
the other is an intermediate form.
The build up of bilirubin in the blood stream is called jaundice and is a general sign of liver
disease. Many medications, gall bladder disease as well as viruses such as infectious
mononucleosis and hepatitis will have jaundice. Many infants are born with less than fully
mature livers. As a consequence, for the first several days, they may show "neonatal jaundice"
which is a build up of bilirubin in the blood stream. This should go away as the liver matures.
Bilirubin determinations are used to study liver function and red cell metabolism
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin. It is transported from the spleen to the liver and
excreted into bile. Hyperbilirubinemia results from the increase of bilirubin concentrations in plasma.
Causes of hyperbilirubinemia: Total bilirubin (T): Increase hemolysis, genetic errors, neonatal jaundice,
ineffective erythrpoiesis, and drugs. Direct bilirubin (D): Hepatic cholestasis, genetic errors,
hepatocellular damage1,5,6. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should
integrate clinical and other laboratory data.

Methods for Bilirubin estimation


===============
1- Direct Spectrophotometry:
*Restricted to newborn(< 28 days) up to 3 months, because their serum contains no
Carotenes.
*Measuring absorbency of Bilirubin in serum at 2 wave lengths 450 & 540 nm
The difference in the absorbance represents bilirubin absorbance (A450 - A540 )
*That is because Hemoglobin reads the same at both W.L while bilirubin reads at 450 nm.
2- Direct Skin Bilirubinometer:
*Restricted also to newborns up to 3 months.
*Needs calibration using:-Methyl Orange solution.
Or -Filter Multilayered color glass.
A450 - A 540 = Absorbance of bilirubin

3- Spectral shift change method:


*Spectral shift through adding hydrophobic cationic polymer.

*Used by KODAK ECTACAM only.

4-HPLC(High Purity Liquid Chromatography):

Using Normal Silica Chromatography .


The Reference method.

5-Colometric methods (Experiment # 8):


*The most commonly used methods.
Depend on reaction of bilirubin& Diazotized Sulfanilic acid (DSA)

MELLOY &EVELYN M.
*Accelerator: Methanol or Urea
*PH
: Neutral
*W.L
: 660
*Color
: Red purple

JENDRASSIL-GROF M.
Caffeine &Na.Benzoate
Alkaline(PH=12)
560 nm
red

Coloumetric Reaction:
*Bil.Glucuronides + DSA Azobilirubin +H2O+Co2+Hcl
(Direct Bilirubin)
*Bil.Glucuronides +DSA +Accelerator Azobilirubin
+H2O+Co2+Hcl(Total Bilirubin)
6-Bilirubin Oxidase Method :
*Specific for Bilirubin only.
*Bil. +Bil. Oxidase Biliverdin (measured at 405 nm)

PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD


Bilirubin is converted to colored azobilirubin by diazotized sulfanilic acid and measured
photometrically. Of the two fractions presents in serum, bilirubin-glucuromide and free
bilirubin loosely bound to albumin, only the former reacts directly in aqueous solution
(bilirubin direct), while free bilirubin requires solubilization with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)
to react (bilirubin indirect). In the determination of indirect bilirubin the direct is also
determined, the results correspond to total bilirubin. The intensity of the color formed is
proportional to the bilirrubin concentration in the sample
PREPARATION

ect

0
00

All the reagents are ready to use


Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Color development in R 2.
Specimen Precautions:
===================
1- Serum or Plasma
2- Avoid Hemolysis
3- Avoid light exposure
4- Storage for 3 days in dark & refrigerator (for months if freezed at 70 C)
5- Urine sample either Random or 24 hrs. not stored for >24 hrs.
PROCEDURE
11. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 555 nm (530-580)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . .1 cm light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-25C
12. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
23. Pipette into a cuvette:

Blank Total B Blank


.
1.5
--R 1 (D) (mL)
-1.5
1.5
R 2 (T) (mL)
-50
-R 3 (L )
100 100
100
Sample
1
4. Mix and incubate exactly for 5 minutes at 15-25C.
25. Read the absorbance (A).
CALCULATIONS
With Factor:
((A) Sample - (A) Sample Blank) x Factor* = mg/dL bilirubin in the sample
: Theoretical factor: Bilirubin (T) = 19,1 ; Bilirubin (D) = 14
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 17.1 = mol/L.
REFERENCE VALUES
Bilirubin Total
Up to 1.10 mg/dL=18.81 mol/L
Bilirubin Direct
Up to 0.25 mg/dL=4.27 mol/L
Questions:

Write causes of jaundice


What are the commonest methods of estimating serum bilirubin in neonates?
Mention the different causes of elevated direct and indirect bilirubins.

Catalytic (Enzymatic) activities of Liver (ELFT)


1-Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
Introduction:
This enzyme used to metabolize materials in the kidney, liver, gall bladder, and pancreas. It is an
exceptionally sensitive indicator of stress in these sites. As a consequence, variations in results may be
quite common. Alcohol consumption (even a little) and many medications are the chief causes of these
swings. This test is used to follow kidney, liver or pancreatic function
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD (Kinetic test (Szasz)
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (-GT) catalyses the transfer of -glutamyl group from -glutamyl-pnitroanilide to acceptor glycylglycine, according to the following reaction:
--L-Glutamyl-3-carboxy-4-nitroanilide + Glycylglycine -GT
-L-Glutamyl-glycylglycine + 2-Nitro-5-aminobenzoic acid
The rate of 2-nitro-5-aminobenzoic acid formation, measured photometrically, is proportional to the
catalytic concentration of -GT present in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (-GT) is a cellular enzyme with wide tissue distribution in the body,
primarily in the kidney, pancreas, liver and prostate.
Measurements of gamma-glutamyl transferase (-GT) activity are used in the diagnosis and treatment
of hepatobiliary diseases such biliary obstruction, cirrhosis or liver tumours
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Dissolve one tablet of R 2 Substrate in one vial of R 1 Buffer.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 21 days at 2-8C or 5 days at room temperature (15-25C).
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 405 nm 1.20.
SAMPLES
Serum. GT is stable for at least 3 days at 2-8C, 8 hours at 15-25C and 1 month at 20C.
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 405 nm

Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1 cm light path


Constant temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25C /30C / 37C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

14. Mix, wait for 1 minute.


25. Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read absorbances at 1
minute intervals thereafter for 3 minutes.
36. Calculate the difference between absorbances and the average absorbance differences per
minute (A/min).
CALCULATIONS
Mean A= (A)/min = (A1+A2+A3) / 3
Enzyme activity (U/L) = A X Factor
A/min x 1190 = U/L of -GT

Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
REFERENCE VALUES

25C
L 4-18 U/L Women
L 6-28 U/L Men

2- Alanine Transaminase (ALT)


PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Alanine aminotranferase (ALT) o Glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT) catalyses the reversible
transfer of an amino group from alanine to -ketoglutarate forming glutamate and piruvate.
The piruvate produced is reduced to lactate by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and NADH:
ALT (GPT)
-ketoglutarate + L-Alanine
L-Glutamate + Pyruvate
Pyruvate + NADH+H+

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)

L-Lactate + NAD

The rate of decrease in concentration of NADH, measured photometrically, is proportional to the


catalytic concentration of ALT present in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The ALT is a cellular enzyme, found in highest concentration in liver and kidney. High levels are
observed in hepatic disease like hepatitis, diseases of muscles and traumatisms, its better application is
in the diagnosis of the diseases of the liver.
When they are used in conjunction with AST aid in the diagnosis of infarcts in the myocardium, since the
value of the ALT stays within the normal limits in the presence of elevated levels of AST
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Dissolve one tablet of R2 Substrate in one vial of R1.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 21 days at 2-8C or 72 hours at room temperature (15-25C).
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 340 nm < 1.00.
SAMPLES
Serum or plasma: Stability 7 days at 2-8C..
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 1 cm light path
Constant temperature . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .25C / 30C / 37C

2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.


3. Pipette into a cuvette:

14. Mix, incubate for 1 minute.


25. Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read absorbances at 1minute intervals thereafter for 3 minutes.
36. Calculate the difference between absorbances and the average absorbance differences per
minute (A/min).
CALCULATIONS
A (mean difference of readings) = (A1 +A2+A3) / 3
ALT enzyme activity (U/L) = A X Factor (F1)
A/min x 1750 = U/L of ALT
Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
REFERENCE VALUES
25C
30C
37C
Men up to
22 U/L
29 U/L
40 U/L
Women up to 18 U/L
22 U/L
32 U/L
Normal newborns have been reported to show a reference range of up to double the adult, attributed to
the neonates hepatocytes. These values decline to adult levels by approximately 3 months of age.

3- Aspartate Transaminase (AST)


Introduction:
Aspartate Transaminase (AST) is also known by its older name, SGOT, this enzyme is needed in the
utilization of energy sources. It is found in high concentrations in muscle (cardiac and others), liver, and
other organs. This test usually is ordered to follow cardiac and muscle disease .
This test can be performed on specimens from patients who are either in a fasting or non fasting. Adult
reference ranges vary widely with different instruments.
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) formerly called glutamate oxaloacetate (GOT) catalyses the
reversible transfer of an amino group from aspartate to -ketoglutarate forming glutamate and
oxalacetate. The oxalacetate produced is reduced to malate by malate dehydrogenase (MDH) and
NADH:
AST (GOT)
-ketoglutarate + L-Aspartate
L-Glutamate + Oxaloacetate
Malate dehydrogenase (MDH)
Oxaloacetate + NADH+H+
Malate+ NAD
The rate of decrease in concentration of NADH, measured photometrically, is proportional to the
catalytic concentration of AST present in the sample.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
The AST is a cellular enzyme, is found in highest concentration in heart muscle, the cells of the liver, the
cells of the skeletal muscle and in smaller amounts in other weaves.
Although an elevated level of AST in the serum is not specific of the hepatic disease, is used mainly to
diagnostic and to verify the course of this disease with other enzymes like ALT and ALP.
Also it is used to control the patients after myocardial infarction, in skeletal muscle disease and other
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Dissolve one tablet of R.2 Substrate with one vial of R1 Buffer.
Cap and mix gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 21 days at 2-8C or 72 hours at room temperature (15-25C).
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 340 nm < 1.00.

SAMPLES
Serum or plasma: Stability 7 days at 2-8C..
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .1 cm. light path
Constant temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25C /30C / 37C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

14. Mix, incubate for 1 minute.


25. Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read absorbances at 1
minute intervals thereafter for 3 minutes.
36. Calculate the difference between absorbances and the average absorbance differences per
minute (A/min).
CALCULATIONS
A (mean difference of readings)/min. = (A1 +A2+A3) / 3
AST enzyme activity (U/L) = A X Factor (F1)
A/min x 1750 = U/L of AST

Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
REFERENCE VALUES
25C
Men up to
19 U/L
Women up to 16 U/L

30C
26 U/L
22 U/L

37C
38 U/L
31 U/L

Bone Profile Testes


Calcium Determination
Introduction:
Calcium is required for cell function overall and for bone metabolism. Too little calcium gets you either a
loss of tissue function or soft bones (osteoporosis) while too much gives you tetni ( cardiac arrest and/or
lock jaw is from over clenching of muscles) or over brittle bones. Changes in calcium are used to assess
bone function. Higher blood levels usually mean lower bone levels. Usually performed in conjunction
with Phosphorous determinations.
OBJECTIVES:
-Ionized calcium constitutes 48 to 52 % of the total calcium, the un-ionized diffusible form
constitutes 5 % approx. and about 43 47 % of the total plasma calcium is protein bound, primarily to
albumin, but also to some extant to the -, - and -globulins.
-To know the status body calcium (Tetany)
METHODS:
i.
Chelation with o-Cresolphthalein Complexone(Colorimetric)
ii.
Atomic absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS)
iii.
Flame photometer
iv.
ISE
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
The measurement of calcium in the sample is based on formation of color complex between calcium
and o-cresolphtalein in alkaline medium:
Ca++ + o-Cresolphtalein OH
Colored complex
O-Cresolphthalein Complex one gives violet color in alkaline medium.
The intensity of the colour formed is proportional to the calcium concentration in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Calcium is the most abundant and one of the most important minerals in the human body.
Approximately 99% of body calcium is found in bones. A decrease in albumin level causes a decrease
in serum calcium. Low levels of calcium are found in hypoparathyroidism, pseudohypoparathyroidism,
vitamin D deficiency, malnutrition and intestinal malabsortion. Among causes of hypercalcemia are
cancers, large intake of vitamin D, enhaced renal retention, osteoporosis, sarcosidosis, thyrotoxicosis,

hyperparathyroidism. Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate
clinical and other laboratory data.

PREPARATION
All the reagents are ready to use. To prepare monoreagent, mix according to this proportion: 50 vol. of
R1 and 1 vol. of R2.
SAMPLES Serum or plasma: Separated from cells as rapidly as possible. Blood anticoagulants with oxalate or
EDTA are not acceptable since these chemicals will strongly chelate calcium.
- Urine: Collect 24 hour urine specimen in calcium free containers. The collecting bottles should contain
10 ml of diluted Nitric acid (50% v/v). Record the volume.
Dilute a sample 1/2 in distilled water. Mix. Multiply results by 2 (dilution factor). Stability of the samples:
Calcium is stable 10 days at 2-8C.
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 570 nm (550-590)
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1 cm. light path
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37C / 15-25C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:
R1 (mL)
R2 (2 drop)
Standard (L)
Sample (L)

Blank
2.0
1
---------

Standard
2.0
1
20
------

Sample
2.0
1
----20

4. Mix and incubate for 5 min at 37C / 15-25C. 5. Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and
calibrator, against the Blank.
The color is stable for at least 40 minutes.
CALCULATIONS
Serum and plasma (A) Sample x 10 (Standard conc.) = mg/dL calcium
(A) Standard
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.25= mmol/L.
REFERENCE VALUES
Serum or plasma:
Adults
8.5-10.5 mg /dL = 2.1-2.6 mmol/L
Children
10 -12 mg/dL = 2.5 - 3 mmol/L
Newborns
8 -13 mg/dL = 2 - 3.25 mmol/L

RESULTS:

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
* HYPOCALCEMIA
1. Vitamin D deficiency
2. Hypoparathyroidism
3. Alkalosis (Alkalemia)
* HYPERCALCEMIA
1. Hyperparathyroidism
2. Malignancy of bone
3. Thyrotoxicosis
4. Vitamin D intoxication
5. Idiopathic
DISCUSSION:
TETANY
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Avoid venous stasis (Increase protein & calcium)
2. Do not use contaminated glass ware (Increase calcium)
3. Lipemic Samples (Prepare blank 0.05 ml sample + 2.5 D.W)

QUESTIONS:
1. What is HYPOCALCEMIA? Write a short note on Tetany.
2. Give the principle for the determination of serum calcium by colorimetric method.
3. Enumerate different methods for the determination of serum calcium.

Quantitative determination of phosphorus


PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Inorganic phosphorus reacts with molybdic acid forming a phosphomolybdic complex. Its subsequent
reduction in alkaline medium originates a blue molybdenum colour.
The intensity of the color formed is proportional to the inorganic phosphorus concentration in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Phosphorus is an essential mineral for tissue bone formation and is required by every cell in the body
for normal function. Approximately 85% of the body phosphorus is found in bone and in teeth.
Low levels of phosphorus, can be caused by hypervitaminosis 0, primary hyperparathyroidism, renal
tubular disorders, antacids or malabsortion.
High levels of phosphorus can be caused by diet, bone metastases, liver disease, alcohol ingestion,
diarrhea and vomiting
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Mix equal volumes of R 1 (Molybdic) and R 2 (Catalyzer)
Stability: 24 h at 2-8C, protected from light.
SAMPLES
- Serum:
Free of hemolysis. Serum should be removed from the clot as quickly as possible to avoid elevation of
serum phosphorus from hydrolysis or leakage of phosphate present in erythrocytes.
Stabilitr 7 days at 2-8C.
- Urine (24 h):
Collect the specimen into a bottle containing 10 mL of 10% v/v hydrochloric acid (HCI) to avoid
phosphate precipitations. Adjust to pH 2. Dilute the sample 1/10 with distilled water. Mix. Multiply the
result by 10 (dilution factor). Stability: 10 days at 2-BoC.
PROCEDURE
1- Assay conditions:
Wavelength: .................710 nm (620-750)
Cuvette: ............................1 cm. light path
Temperature ....................37C 1 15-25C

2- Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water.


3- Pipette into a cuvette:
Sample
1.5
-50

Standard
1.5
50
--

Blank
1.5
WR (mL)
- Standard (L)
-- Sample (L)

4. Mix and incubate for 10 min at 37C or 30 min at room temperature (15-30C).
5- Read the absorbance (A) of the samples and calibrator, against the Blank.
The colour is stable for at least 2 hours.
CALCULATIONS
Serum
(A) Sample x

5 (Calibrator cone.) = mg/dL of phosphorus in the sample

(A) Calibrator
Conversion factor: mg/dL x 0.323 = mmol/L.
REFERENCE VALUES
Serum:
Children : 4.0 - 7.0 mg/dL = (1.3 - 2.2 mmol/L)
Adults : 2.5 - 5.0 mg/dL = (O.8 - 1.8 mmo/lL)

Quantitative determination of alkaline phosphatase (ALP)


PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) catalyses the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl phosphate at pH 10.4, liberating pnitrophenol and phosphate, according to the following reaction:
p-Nitrophenylphosphate + H20

p-Nitrophenol + Phosphate

The rate of p-Nitrophenol formation, measured photometrically, is proportional to the catalytic


concentration of alkaline phosphatase present in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme present in almost all weaves of the organism, being particularly
high in bone, liver, placenta, intestine and kidney.
Both increases and decreases of plasma ALP are of importance
clinically. Causes of increased plasma ALP: Paget's disease of
bone, obstructive liver disease, hepatitis, hepatotoxicity caused by
drugs or osteomalacia. Causes of decreased plasma ALP:
Cretinism and vitamin C deficiency1,5,6. Clinical diagnosis should
not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and
other laboratory data.
PREPARATION
working reagent (WR):
Dissolve one tablet of R 2 Substrate in one vial of R 1 Buffer.
SAMPLES
Serum or heparinzed. plasma _Use unhemolyzed .serum, separated from the clot as soon as possible.
Stability: 3 days at 2-8C.
PROCEDURE
1-Assay conditions:
Wavelength: ................. .. . ...................405 nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . .. . 1 cm light path
Constant temperature ...................25C 30C 37C

2-Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.


3-Pipette into a cuvette:
WR (mL)

1.2

(L)Sample

20

4. Mix, incubate for 1 minute.


5-Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read absorbances at 1 minute
intervals thereafter for 3 minutes.
6-Calculate the difference between absorbances and the average absorbance differences per minute
(A/min).
CALCULATIONS
(A/min) x 3300 = U/L de ALP
Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
REFERENCE VALUES1
25C
37C
Children (1-14 years)

< 400 U/L

< 480 U/L

< 645 U/L

Adults

60 - 170 U/L

73 - 207 U/L 98 - 279 U/L

Factors affecting ALP activities in a normal population include exercise, periods of repaid growth in
children and pregnancy.

Cardiac profile Testes


Quantitative determination of creatin kinase (CK)
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Creatine kinase is a cellular enzyme with wide tissue distribution in the body. Its physiological role is
associated with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) generation for contractile or transport systems.
Elevated CK values are observed in diseases of skeletal muscle and after myocardial infarction
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
Creatine kinase (CK) catalyses the reversible transfer of a phosphate group from phosphocreatine to
ADP. This reaction is coupled to those catalysed by hexokinase (HK) and glucose-6-phosphate
dehydrogenase (G6P-DH):
Phosphocreatine + ADP CK
Creatine + ATP
ATP + Glucose
HK
ADP + Glucose-6-phosphate
G6P + NADP + G6P-DH
6-Phosphogluconate + NADPH + H +
The rate of NADPH formation, measured photometrically, is proportional to the catalytic concentration of
CK present in the sample
PREPARATION
Working reagent (WR):
Dissolve 1 tablet of R 2 Substrate with one vial of R 1.
Cap vial and mix gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 5 days at 2-8C or 24 hours at room temperature (15-25C).
STORAGE AND STABILITY
All the components of the kit are stable until the expiration date on the label when stored tightly closed
at 2-8C, protected from light and contaminations prevented during their use.
Do not use the tablets if appears broken.
Do not use reagents over the expiration date.
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 340 nm 1.60.
SAMPLES
Serum or plasma: Stability 7 days at 2-8C, protected from light.
The creatin kinase activity decreases 10% after 1 day at 2-5C or after 1 hour at 15-25C.
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 nm

Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .1 cm light path


Constant temperature . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .25C / 30C / 37C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

C
WR (mL)
Sample (L)
14. Mix, incubate for 2 minutes.
25. Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read absorbances at 1
minute intervals thereafter for 3 minutes.
36. Calculate the difference between absorbances and the average absorbance differences per
minute (A/min).
CALCULATIONS
A / min x 4127 = U/L CK
A / min x 8095 = U/L CK
Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
REFERENCE VALUES
25C
30C
Men, up to
80 U/L 130 U/L
Women, up to 70 U/L 110 U/L

37C
195 U/L
170 U/L

Quantitative determination of creatine kinase MB (CK-MB)


PRINCIPLE OF THE METHOD
An antibody to the anti CK-M inhibits completely CK-MM and subunit (M) of the CK-MB. The activity of
the non-inhibited CK-B subunit is then assayed by the following series of reactions:
Phosphocreatine + ADP CK
Creatine + ATP
ATP + Glucose
HK
ADP + Glucose-6-phosphate
G6P + NADP + G6P-DH
6-Phosphogluconate + NADPH + H +
The rate of NADPH formation, measured photometrically, is proportional to the catalytic concentration of
CK-B present in the sample
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
CK-MB is an enzyme formed by the association of two subunits from muscle (M) and nerve cells (B).
CK-MB is usually present in serum at low concentration; it is increases after an acute infarct of
myocardium and later descends at normal levels. Also is increased, rarely, in skeletal muscle damage.
Clinical diagnosis should not be made on a single test result; it should integrate clinical and other
laboratory data.
PREPARATION
- Working reagent (WR)
Dissolve one tablet of R 2 in one vial of R 1.
Cap vial and mix gently to dissolve contents.
Stability: 8 days at 2-8C or 24 hours at 15-25C.
Signs of reagent deterioration:
1- Presence of particles and turbidity.
2- Blank absorbance (A) at 340 nm 1.60.
SAMPLES
Serum or plasma: Stability 7 days at 2-8C, protected from light.
CK-MB activity decreases a 10% after 24 hours at 4C or 1 hour at 25C.
PROCEDURE
1. Assay conditions:
Wavelength: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 nm
Cuvette: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 1 cm light path
Constant temperature . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .25C / 30C / 37C
2. Adjust the instrument to zero with distilled water or air.
3. Pipette into a cuvette:

1. WR (mL)
0
40 Sample (L)

4. Mix. Incubate for 10 minute.


5. Read initial absorbance (A) of the sample, start the stopwatch and read again after 5 minutes (A2).
6. Calculate the difference between absorbances : A= A2 A1.
CALCULATIONS

A x 1651 = U/L de CK-MB

A x 825 = U/L de CK-B

Units: One international unit (IU) is the amount of enzyme that transforms 1 mol of substrate per
minute, in standard conditions. The concentration is expressed in units per litre of sample (U/L).
Percentage of CK-MB activity in sample:
CK-MB Activity

x 100

% CK-MB Activity =
CK total Activity

REFERENCE VALUES
Heart infarct probability is high at the following conditions:
25C
30C
37C
CK-MB > 10 U/L
> 15 U/L
> 24 U/L
CK-MB activity is between 6 and 25% of total CK activity.

Appendix (1)
Collective Knowledge of Most Common Lab.Tests

Blood Tests
Glucose: Glucose is the primary blood sugar test and indicates blood sugar level at the time
blood was drawn. High values are seen in diabetics. In addition to pancreatic functions, Glucose
may be altered by diet and medication. Normal fasting value is 70-110.
Fructosamine: Indicates blood sugar levels over the past one to three weeks.
HGB A1C (Glycohemoglobin): Indicates blood sugar activity for the past three months.
BUN: BUN stands for Blood Urea Nitrogen and is a waste product which should be removed
from the blood by the kidneys. This test measures kidney function. Normal range is 6-20.
Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product which should be removed from the blood by the
kidneys. This test measures kidney function. Normal range is 0.5-1.2.
ASAT/ALT: Material found in the liver cells and muscle (heart) cells. Damage to these cells will
increase values. Normal range is 10-60.
LDH: LDH is a material found in blood cells and liver cells. Breakdown of the blood cells as in
heart disease or liver damage may increase values. Normal range is 91-180.
Alkaline Phosphorus: A material found in the blood related to liver and bone. Normal range for
adult males is 20-125; normal range for adult females is 42-124.
SGOT, SGPT: Two measures of liver function; occasionally affected by muscle injury.
GGTP: The earliest liver function to become abnormal.
Total Bilirubin: The level of pigment in the blood. Elevations can be associated with liver disease
or breakdown or red blood cells. Slight increases are sometimes seen without significance.
Some people normally have isolated elevations of bilirubin called Gilbert's disease. Normal
range is 1.0-1.2.

Total Protein: This is a combination of albumin and globulin, which are proteins. Abnormal
values occur in liver disease and poor nutrition. Normal range is 6.7-8.0.
Globulin: Globulin helps to combat infection on a normal level. It is the total protein value minus
albumin value. Normal range is 2.3-4.0.
A/G Ratio: Albumin value divided by the globulin value. Normal range is 0.8-2.4.
Calcium: The most abundant mineral found in the human body. Abnormalities are found in loss
of bone, kidney disease and lack of Vitamin D. Normal range is 8.5-10.5.
Phosphorous: Related to bone activity and usually follows exact opposite of calcium. Normal
range is 2.5-4.6.
Uric Acid: A material which, if in excess, can deposit stones in the kidney or in the joints and
cause gout. Normal range for males is 4.0-7.0; normal range for females is 2.0-6.0.
Cholesterol: A blood fat related in part to eating animal fats such as eggs, cheese, cream, liver,
pork, beef, etc. Increased values may indicate a tendency to have hardening of the arteries.
Values of 180 or less are associated with least risk of heart disease; in addition to diet and
exercise.
Lipoproteins: Proteins combined with lipids that serve as carriers of cholesterol. LDL ("Bad"
Cholesterol); HDL ("Good" Cholesterol). The higher the value, the less likely that cholesterol
deposits are in the blood stream and the less likely the chance of coronary heart disease.
Cholesterol/HDL ratio measures the coronary risk factors.
Triglycerides: A blood fat related to calories and starch (sweets) in the diet. High levels can
impair circulation and lead to hardening of the arteries. Alcohol also will increase the value. Fast
overnight test for accurate test results. Normal range for males is 40-160; normal range for
feales is 35-135.
Magnesium: An element absorbed in the intestine. Abnormal levels are found in pancreatitis,
alcoholism and Addison's disease. Normal range is 1.8-2.4.
Socium: A body salt, also termed electrolyte. Kidney disease and some diseases of the adrenal
gland and dehydration can cause abnormal results. Normal range is 135-145.
Potassium: A body salt or electrolyte found mostly inside of cells. "Water pills" may lower
potassium and increase kidney damage. Normal range is 3.6-5.0.
Chloride: A body salt/electrolyte, it usually follows the same pattern as sodium. Normal range is
101-111.
Co2: Buffer system which assists in the transport of carbon dioxide from the tissue to the lungs.
Normal range is 21-31.
HIV antibody: Presence of antibody is associated with having been infected by the virus known
to cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

PSA: Abnormal levels in the serum are associated with clinical abnormalities of the prostate,
including prostate cancer. Because PSA is found in normal, malignant and benign prostatic
tissue, clinical discrimination is based upon its serum level.

Complete Blood Count


WBC (White Blood Cells): White blood count is the number of white blood cells. It helps combat
infection. Normal range is 4.8-10.8.
RBC (Red Blood Cells): Red blood count is the number of red blood cells. It relates to anemia
and oxygen transport. Normal range for males is 4.7-6.1; normal range for females is 4.2-5.4.
HGB/HCT: Hemoglobin is an iron-bearing protein which is the red coloring matter found in blood.
Normal range for males is 14-18; normal range for females is 12-16.
MCH/MCV/MCHC: Mathematical relationship between red blood count size, red blood count
number and hemoglobin concentration.
Platelets: Platelets deal with hemostasis and blood coagulation. Normal range is 130-400.
Urine Tests
WBC (White Blood Cells): Indicates possible infection of urinary tract, bladder or kidney.
RBC (Red Blood Cells): Possible kidney stone, kidney infection or tumor.
Casts: Possible kidney infection or disease.
Glucose: Sugar in the urine, possibility of glucose intolerance or low renal threshold.
Protein: Possible kidney infection or disease.

Appendix (2)
Common Blood Profiles
Reference values for the more commonly employed laboratory tests are given in the following table. The
reference values are in the units currently often used and in the International System (SI) of Units.
Test

Current units

Factor

SI units

Diabetic Screen
65-110 mg/dl
Glucose, fasting
71-180mg/dl

0.055

3.57-6.05 mmol/L

0.055

3.9-10.0 mmol/L

<200 mg/dl

0.0259

<5.2 mmol/L

>35 mg/dl

0.0259

>0.9 mmol/L

<150 mg/dl

0.0259

<3.9 mmol/L

<205 mg/dl

0.0113

<2.3 mmol/L

<5.8

<5.8

0.25-1.5 mg/dl

17.1

4.3-25.6 mol/L

0-0.5 mg/dl

17.1

0 - 8 mol/L

0-0.9 mg/dl

17.1

0-14 mol/L

6.5-8.5 gm/dl

10

65-85 gm/L

Glucose , random
Glycosylated hemoglobin

5.5 - 8.5%

( Hba1c )
Heart disease risk factors
(fasting lipids )
Total Cholesterol
HDL cholesterol
LDL cholesterol
Triglyceride
Total cholesterol/HDL ratio
Liver function tests
Total Bilirubin
Direct Bilirubin
Indirect Bilirubin
Total Protein

3.5-4.8 gm/dl

0.154

0.54 - 0.74mmol/L

2.0-3.9 g/dl

10

20-39 g/L

1-2.5

1-2.5

11-50 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

18-84 X 10-8 Katal/L

Albumin
Globulin
Albumin/Globulin ratio
g -Glutamy transpeptidase
(GGT) -Male
12-58 X 10-8 Katal/L

7-35 IU/L
g -Glutamy transpeptidase
(GGT) -Female
Alkaline Phosphatase

45-125 IU/L(up to
1000 IU/L in young
children)

1.67 X 10-8

0.75-2.1 X 10-8 Katal/L

5-35 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

8.4 -58 X 10-8 Katal/L

5-40 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

8.4 -67 X 10-8 Katal/L

8-25 mg/dl

0.357

2.9-8.9 mmol/L

0.6-1.7 mg/dl

88.4

53-150 mol/L

3.5-8.0 mg/dl

0.059

0.21-0.47 mmol/L

3.3-4.9 mmol/L

3.3-4.9 mmol/L

135-145 mmol/L

135-145 mmol/L

8.9-10.3 mg/dl

0.25

2.23-2.57 mmol/L

4.5-5.0 mg/dl

0.25

1.12-1.25 mmol/L

2.5-4.5 mg/dl

0.323

0.8-1.5 mmol/L

Alanine aminotransferase
(SGPT / ALT)
Aspartate aminotransferase
(SGOT/ AST)

Renal/Kidney Function Tests


Urea (BUN)
Creatinine
Uric acid
Potassium
Sodium
Total Calcium
Free Calcium
Phosphate

Other Common Serum Chemistries/Enzymatic Activities


Test
Ammonia (plasma)

Current units

Factor

SI units

11-35 mol/L

11-35 mol/L

7.35-7.45

7.35-7.45

80-105 mmHg

0.133

10.6-14.0 kPa

35 - 45 mmHg

0.133

4.7-6.0 kPa

22-31 mmol/L

22-31 mmol/L

50-300 g/dl

0.0186

0.9-5.6 mol/L

0.23-0.58 gm/L

6.7

1.5-3.9 mol/L

95-105 mEq/L

95-105 mmol/L

70-140 g/dl

0.157

11.0-22 mol/L

85-155 g/dl

0.157

13.3-24.3 mol/L

81-175 mg/dl

0.01

0.8-1.75gm/L

12-34 mg/dl

0.01

0.12-0.34 gm/L

2.25

29-326 pmol/L

Blood gases (arterial, whole


blood) - pH
Blood gases (arterial, whole
blood) - PO2
Blood gases (arterial, whole
blood) - PCO2
Blood gases (arterial, whole
blood) -Carbon dioxide
content
-Carotene
Ceruplasmin
Chloride
Copper - Male
Copper - Female

118-226CH50U/ml
Complement (total, hemolytic)
C3
C4
Creatinine Clearence

60-120 ml/min

Ferritin - Children

13-145 ng/ml

Ferritin -Male, adult

25-240 ng/ml

56-540 pmol/L

Ferritin - Female, adult

12-130 ng/ml

Fibrinogen

150-360 mg/dl

0.01

1.5-3.6 gm/L

Folate - Plasma

1.7-12.6 ng/ml

2.27

3.9-29 nmol/L

Folate - Red cell

153-602 ng/ml

Haptoglobin

100-300 mg/dl

0.01

1.10-3.00 gm/L

Immunoglobulin - IgA

39-358 mg/dl

0.01

0.39-3.58 gm/L

Immunoglobulin - IgM

33-229 mg/dl

0.01

0.33-2.29 gm/L

Immunoglobulin - IgG

679-1537 mg/dl

0.01

6.79-15.37 gm/L

Iron - Male

80-160 g/dl

0.179

14.3-28.6 mol/L

Iron - Female

60-135 g/dl

10.7-24.2 mol/L

Iron - Binding capacity

250-350 g/dl

44.7-62.6 mol/L

Iron - Transferrin saturation


Lactate (plasma)

27-292 pmol/L

347-1367 nmol/L

16-57%

16-57%

0.3-1.3 mmol/L

0.3-1.3 mmol/L

1.5-2.1 mEq/L

0.5

0.7-1.1 mmol/L

270-290 mOsm/kg

270-290 mOsm/kg

0.1-0.5 gm/dl

10

1-5 gm/L

0.3-1.2 gm/dl

10

3-12 gm/L

0.7-1.7 gm/dl

10

7-17 gm/L

Magnesium
Osmolality
Protein electrophoresis Alpha- 1- globulin
Protein electrophoresis - Alpha
-2- globulin
Protein electrophoresis - Beta
globulin

0.7-1.7 gm/dl

10

7-17 gm/L

30-95 g/dl

0.035

1.05-3.32 mol/L

200-800 pg/ml

0.739

148-591 pmol/L

Protein electrophoresis Gamma globulin


Vitamin A
Vitamin B12
Other common serum enzymatic activities
Test

Current units

Factor

SI units

1.5-8.1 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

2.5-13.5 X 10-8 Katal/L

25-115 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

42-192 X 10-8 Katal/L

Up to 185 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

Up to 309X10-8 Katal/L

Up to 150 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

Up to 251X10-8 Katal/L

90-250 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

150-417 X 10-8 Katal/L

4-24 IU/dl

10

40-240 IU/L

2-16 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

3-27 X 10-8 Katal/L

Up to 0.7 IU/L

1.67 X 10-8

Up to 1.2X10-8 Katal/L

Aldolase
Amylase
Creatine kinase - Male
Creatine kinase - Female
Lactic dehydrogenase
Lipase
5' - Nucleotidase
Phosphatase, acid
Common Serum Hormone Values
Test

Current units

Factor

SI units

20-100 pg/ml

0.22

4.4-22 pmol/L

10-160 ng/L

2.77

28-443 mmol/L

8-25 g/dl

0.027

0.22-0.57 mol/L

Up to 20 IU/L

Up to 20 IU/L

Up to 20 IU/L

ACTH, fasting (8 AM)


Aldosterone
Cortisol (plasma, morning)
FSH - Male
FSH Female - Follicular

Up to 20 IU/L

Up to 15 IU/L

Up to 15 IU/L

15-30 IU/L

15-30 IU/L

>40 IU/L

>40 IU/L

Up to 130 pg/ml

Up to 130 ng/L

<5 ng/ml

<5 g/L

<10 mU/L

<10 mU/L

LH - Male

Up to 25 IU/L

Up to 25 IU/L

LH - Female -Follicular

Up to 40 IU/L

Up to 40 IU/L

LH - Female - Luteal

Up to 25 IU/L

Up to 25 IU/L

LH - Female - Midcycle

50-150 IU/L

50-150 IU/L

LH - Female Postmenopausal

>30 IU/L

>30 IU/L

Parathyroid hormone

2-10 U/ml

2-10 arb units

Progesterone - Male

Up to 100 ng/dl

FSH Female - Luteal


FSH Female - Midcycle
FSH Female Postmenopausal
Gastrin, fasting
Growth hormone, fasting
3-90 ng/dl
17-Hydroxyprogesterone Prepubertal
27-199 ng/dl
17-Hydroxyprogesterone Male, adult
15-70 ng/dl
17-Hydroxyprogesterone Female - Follicular
35-290 ng/dl
17-Hydroxyprogesterone Female - Luteal
Insulin, fasting (72 hr)

Progesterone - Female
-Follicular

Up to 150 ng/dl

Progesterone - Female Luteal

250-2800 ng/dl

Progesterone - Female -1st


trimester

1300-5000 ng/dl

Prolactin - Male

2-12- ng/ml

2-12 ug/L

Prolactin - Female

2-20 ng/ml

2-20 ug/L

Renin activity (plasma)

0.9-3.3 ng/ml/hr

0.278

0.2-0.9 ng/L.s

Testosterone, total - Male

280-1000 ng/dl

0.0346

10-35 nmol/L

Testosterone, total - Female

20 -120 ng/dl

Testosterone, free - Male

52-280 pg/ml

Testosterone, free - Female

1.1-6.3 pg/ml

Thyroxine, total ( T4 )

5.0-11.0 ug/dl

12.9

64-142 nmol/L

Thyroxine, free

1.0-2.3 ng/dl

12.9

13-30 pmol/L

T3 resin uptake

35-45%

0.01

0.35-0.45 arb units

100-216 ng/dl

0.0154

1.54-3.23 nmol/L

1.75-4.95

1.75-4.95 arb units

Up to 10 U/ml

Up to 10 mU/L

Triiodothyronine (T3)
T4 index
TSH
Vitamin D, 1,25 dihydroxy

20-76 pg/ml

Vitamin D, 25 hydroxy

10-55 ng/m

1-4 nmol/L
0.00346

0.18-1.0 nmol/L
4-22 X 10- nmol/L

Common Urinary Chemistries


Test

Current units

Factor

SI units

-aminolevulinic acid

1.3-7.0 mg/day

7.6

9.9-53 mol/day

Amylase

0.04-0.30 IU/min

0.04-0.30 IU/min

Calcium

< 250mg/day

0.025

< 6.25 nmol/day

Catecholamines

< 135 g/day

Up to 135 g/day

Dopamine

90-440 g/day

Epinephrine

< 13 g/day

5.5

Up to 71 nmol/day

Norepinephrine

11-86 g/day

5.9

65-507 nmol/day

Copper

15-50 g/day

0.0157

0.2-0.78 mol/day

Cortisol, free

20-90 g/day

2.76

55- 248 nmol/day

Creatinine - Male

1.0-2.0 gm/day

0.0088

0.009-0.018 mmol/day

Creatinine - Female

0.6-1.5 gm/day

5Hydroxyindoleacetic acid

1.8-6 mg/day

5.3

9.5-31.8 mol/day

Hydroxyproline, total

25-77 mg/day

7.63

191-588 mol/day

Metanephrine

0.3-1.0 mg/day

Oxalate

Up to 40 mg/day

7.93

< 317 mol/day

Porphyrin-Coproporphyrin

15-125 g/day

1.53

23-191 nmol/day

Porphyrin-Uroporphyrin

< 30 g/day

1.2

Up to 36 nmol/day

Protein

< 150 mg/day

0.001

Up to 0.150 gm/day

Vanillylmandelic acid (VMA)

0.5-7 mg/day

5.05

2.5-35.3 mol/day

0.005-0.013 mmol/day

Common Hematologic Studies


Test

Current units

Factor

SI units

2.5-9.5 min

60

150-570 sec

25-41 sec

25-41 sec

Coagulation studies Prothrombin time

10.8-13.0 sec

10.8-13.0 sec

Coagulation studies Thrombin time

11.3-18.5 sec

11.3-18.5 sec

Hematocrit - Male

40.7-50.3%

0.01

0.4-0.503 arb units

Hematocrit - Female

36.1-44.3%

Hemoglobin - Male

13.8-17.2 gm/dl

Hemoglobin - Female

12.1-15.1 gm/dl

Erythrocyte / RBC count Male

4.5-5.7 X106/ l

Erythrocyte / RBC count Female

3.9- 5.0X106/ l

Leukocyte count

3.8-9.8X 10/ l

Leukocyte profile Lymphocytes

1.2-3.3X 10/ l

Leukocyte profile Mononuclear cells

0.1-0.7X10/ l

Leukocyte profile Granulocytes

1.8-6.6X 10/ l

Coagulation studies - Bleeding


time
Coagulation studies -Partial
thromboplastin time

0.36-0.44 arb units


0.62

8.56-10.7 mmol/L
7.50-9.36 mmol/L

106

4.5-5.7 X 10/L

3.9-5.0 X 10/L

106

3.8-9.8 X 109/L

190 -405 X10/ l

106

190-405 X 109/L

Erythrocyte indices - Mean


corpuscular hemoglobin

26.7-33.7 pg/cell

0.062

1.66-2.09 fmol/cell

Erythrocyte indices - Mean


corpuscular hemoglobin
concentration

32.7-35.5 gm/dl

0.62

20.3-22.0 mmol/L

Erythrocyte indices - Mean


corpuscular volume

80.0-97.6 cu

Platelet count

Erythrocyte indices - Red cell


distribution width

80.0-97.6 fl

11.8-14.6%
Up to 30 mm/hr

Up to 30 mm/hr

Erythrocyte Sedimentation
rate
0.2-2.0%
Reticulocyte count
Practical Sheet #( )
Practical Experiment: ...........................................................

Objectives:
.

.
..
Principle:
.

.
..

..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
.

Results:
.

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

COMMENTS & QUESTIONS


.

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
..

.
.

You might also like