Serum beta-hexosaminidase and alpha-mannosidase activities as markers of alcohol abuse.

In 25-alcohol-dependent patients in whom detoxication treatment has been introduced serum total beta-hexosaminidase, thermostable beta-hexosaminidase, alpha-mannosidase and gamma glutamylotransferase (GGT) and serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were determined during alcohol withdrawal. The assays were also performed in a group of dependent individuals after a 1 month or longer period of abstinence. Marked increase in beta-hexosaminidase activity was observed in intoxicated patients. The activity decreased rapidly after the cessation of drinking, resembling the decrease in HDL cholesterol level in its dynamics. The alpha-mannosidase activity rise was less pronounced and its normalization was slow, similar to the GGT activity normalization rate. The rise of beta-hexosaminidase activity was mostly due to the thermostable component of the enzyme. Total beta-hexosaminidase or thermostable beta-hexosaminidase activity determinations appear to be simple and reliable markers of alcohol abuse.