Serum-beta-N-acetyl hexosaminidase (beta-NAH) in the elderly.

Serum levels of beta-N-Acetyl Hexosaminidase (beta-NAH) provide information on the normal non-phagocytic function of Kupffer cells in the liver. Beta-NAH can thus be used as an indicator for non-parenchymal non-phagocytic liver cell function, whereas most of the more routine liver function tests measure hepatocytic status or function. Serum beta-NAH activity levels found in 49 patients and 10 healthy individuals above the age of 65 did not differ significantly from those found in younger controls. The results clearly indicate that beta-NAH serum activity in the aged is within normal limits and, if accepted as a routine measure of the non-phagocytic function of non-parenchymal liver cells, could be used in all adults.