Serum amylase and its isoenzymes in cases of viral hepatitis.

Serum amylase (SA) and its isoenzymes were studied in 9 control cases and 26 cases of Viral Hepatitis (VH). A significant rise in SA level was found in VH cases (Mean value--287.15 + 100.64) as compared to control cases (Mean value--155.56 + 28.57). The value was markedly increased in 8 cases with hepatic encephalopathy (Mean value--388 + 57.21). Isoenzymes of SA were estimated in all the cases by means of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and a direct saccharogenic assay of amylase activity. Besides two regular peaks (Pancreatic and Salivary fractions) a third peak (Slowest of all) was noticed in 4 out of 9 control cases (44.5%) and 19 out of 26 cases of VH (73.1%). Out of 8 cases who developed hepatic encephalopathy during the course, 7 had this peak (87.5%). SA levels and its isoenzymes level correlated well with the extent of hepatic damage (SGPT and Serum bilirubin levels). The possibility of hepatic origin of the third peak has been discussed.