Forsman R W
Clin Biochem. 1986 Aug;19(4):250-3. doi: 10.1016/s0009-9120(86)80036-4.
The contribution made by macroamylase to the occurrence of hyperamylasemia of unknown origin has not been previously quantitated nor has the distribution of age and sex been identified in a large sample. Knowing the pattern of this enzyme complex when analyzed by an electrophoretic isoenzyme procedure would be of importance in recognizing its presence. During a three-year period we have studied a population of 2 900 patients with elevated serum amylase from whom specimens were sent to our laboratory with a request for amylase isoenzyme analysis. It was assumed that the primary reason for requesting these analyses was to clarify the presentation of hyperamylasemia. Macroamylase occurred in 9.6% of these patients. The total activity of the macroamylase specimens was typically 1 to 4 times normal but ranged to 20 times normal. Comparing these patients with a macroamylase-negative group, the distribution of age and sex was found to be no different. Macroamylase had a characteristically unusual electrophoretic pattern with bands faster than normal pancreatic amylase in 10% of cases, bands between pancreatic and salivary in 30% of cases, and the remaining 60% with atypical anodal bands.
