[A simple method to detect disaccharides deficiency]

Acta Gastroenterol Latinoam. 2003;33(2):63-71.
[Article in Spanish]

Abstract

A simple method, easy to perform during an endoscopic procedure, fast and inexpensive, that allows detecting deficiencies in lactase, sucrase or maltase activities is presented. Briefly, method consists in placing a duodenal biopsy sample in an adequate vial containing lactose, sucrose or maltose solution during a few minutes, and then, adding a few drops of a glucose reactive from commercial origin. Presence of any enzymatic activity is demonstrated when released glucose from any of the disaccharides chosen reacts with the second reactive, turning solution to a red colour. Its utility is discussed and compared with other diagnostic methods.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Enzyme Tests / methods*
  • Colorimetry
  • Disaccharidases / deficiency*
  • Duodenoscopy
  • Duodenum / enzymology*
  • Duodenum / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Mucosa / enzymology*
  • Intestinal Mucosa / pathology
  • Lactose / deficiency
  • Male
  • Maltose / deficiency
  • Sucrase / deficiency

Substances

  • Maltose
  • Disaccharidases
  • Sucrase
  • Lactose