Macroenzyme investigation and monitoring in children with persistent increase of aspartate aminotransferase of unexplained origin

J Pediatr. 1998 Aug;133(2):286-9. doi: 10.1016/s0022-3476(98)70238-0.

Abstract

Ten children with asymptomatic persistent cryptogenic increased serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were screened for detection and monitoring of AST macroenzyme (macroAST). MacroAST was found in 4 patients; their serum AST levels were significantly higher than in those without biochemical evidence of macroAST (mean +/- SD: 515 +/- 433 and 78 +/- 16 IU/L, respectively; P = .0095). MacroAST was a persistent, benign phenomenon and was probably not congenital.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aspartate Aminotransferases / blood*
  • Blood Chemical Analysis
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Electrophoresis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Male
  • Polyethylene Glycols

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • Aspartate Aminotransferases