Biochemistry · Clinical Enzymology and Organ Function Tests

Amylase isoenzyme electrophoresis of a serum sample shows a predominant S-type (salivary) isoenzyme with only mildly elevated P-type (pancreatic). This finding would be MOST consistent with which condition?

  • A Acute pancreatitis
  • B Parotitis (mumps)
  • C Macroamylasemia
  • D Pancreatic pseudocyst
Correct answer: B. Parotitis (mumps)

Explanation

Amylase exists as two isoenzymes: P-type (pancreatic) and S-type (salivary). In parotitis (e.g., mumps), the S-type isoenzyme is predominantly elevated. Acute pancreatitis elevates P-type isoenzyme. Macroamylasemia causes total amylase elevation (both types bound to immunoglobulin) with urine amylase being low; isoenzyme typing alone does not distinguish it without urinary clearance data. Pancreatic pseudocyst primarily elevates P-type.

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

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