ABSTRACT
A simple reverse-phase liquid chromatographic method has been developed for the quantitative measurement of 11 3 alpha-OH bile acids in paediatric serum samples. Bile acids are enzymatically reduced to the corresponding 3-keto compound and then derivatized with the fluorophore dansyl hydrazine. Preliminary fractionation of bile acids is not required. The limit of detection is 0.1 mumol/L using a sample size of 200 microL. One hundred and twenty-three serum samples were analysed by the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method and the results compared with a commercial kit method (Enzabile) presently used in many laboratories for the measurement of total bile acids. There was a good correlation between the two methods (r = 0.96). The method is suitable for use in a clinical laboratory for the further investigation of those patients with abnormally high total bile acid levels where quantification of bile acid fractions is required.
Subject(s)
Bile Acids and Salts/blood , 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases/metabolism , 3-alpha-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase (B-Specific) , Bile Acids and Salts/metabolism , Buffers , Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid , Dansyl Compounds/chemistry , Fluorescent Dyes/chemistry , Humans , Hydrazines/chemistry , Hydrolysis , Oxidation-Reduction , Reference Standards , Reproducibility of ResultsABSTRACT
Colic in infants is a common but short-lived problem. Many different theories and treatment for this distressing ailment have been tried over the years, yet the definitive cure remains elusive. Although the risks associated with the use of atropine and its derivatives are well known, they are still prescribed by some in the management of colic. We report a case of serious side effects from the treatment of colic with an atropine containing mixture, in which an error in preparation was identified. In view of the potential for serious toxicity resulting from either inappropriate prescription, preparation or administration, alternative methods of treatment should be employed.
