THE AMYLASE OF SERUM IN RELATION TO FUNCTIONAL STATES OF THE PANCREAS

Abstract

In dogs after pancreatectomy the serum amylase falls to less than half the normal value and does not recover. When glycogen is used as substrate the measured effect is less and also inconstant. In animals with ligated pancreatic ducts there is a progressive rise in serum amylase for 2 or 3 days. A steep fall to nearly normal values ensues in the next few days after which it slowly sinks to values about half the normal. In fistulas the serum amylase runs a course similar to ligation with, however, a less steep rise and a quicker return to normal. The effect of ether anesthesia is equivalent to a temporary obstruction. This is also shown in human beings. Chloroform lowers the serum amylase with recovery to normal in a few days. It raises the serum lipase (substrate; triglycerides). Amylase is not absorbed from the intestine. Normal liver bile contains only traces of amylase. When the serum amylase rises, excretion in the bile occurs. Amylase is readily excreted in the kidney but there is considerable destruction in the urine. Urine amylase determinations are therefore not very significant.