[N-procollagen(III)peptide and lysosomal beta-galactosidase in progressive scleroderma and silicosis].

The concentration of type III collagen aminopropeptide and the activity of lysosomal beta-galactosidase were determined in the serum of patients with progressive sclerosis (PS), silicosis and PS associated with silicosis. In PS-patients, the serum levels of both parameters were significantly increased with a high correlation to the stage of the disease and to each other. In patients with silicosis normal serum concentrations of both parameters were found, whereas in all patients suffering from silicosis and PS significantly elevated serum levels were detectable, independent of the stage of PS. Both parameters can also be used as markers of therapy (e.g. with D-penicillamine) and as early indicators for the development of PS in patients with silicosis.