Abstract

The normal values for orosomucoid and the α₁ acid glycoprotein of Schultze in young adults are reported, specifically estimated by an immunological technique. The use of purified orosomucoid as a standard allowed of absolute estimation of this protein. The α₁ acid glycoprotein is estimated relative to a standard normal serum.

These proteins were estimated in the serum of eight patients after surgery. Both proteins rise markedly in the serum, the α₁ acid glycoprotein reaching peak concentration in two to three days, and falling again equally rapidly, the orosomucoid rising more slowly to reach a peak after four to seven days, and returning to normal values in 10 to 14 days.

Estimations of serum levels in 24 patients with a variety of diseases show that the two proteins can vary independently; values as high as eight times normal were found for orosomucoid in Crohn's disease. In patients with proteinuria, orosomucoid is preferentially excreted in the urine. The losses of α₁ acid glycoprotein are, however, anomalous, being proportionately less than those of albumin, relative to the serum levels.

The significance of these preliminary findings is discussed.