Measuring Serum Paracetamol with a Discrete Analyser
Author Information
Author(s): R. Stewart Campbell, Peter M. Hammond, Michael D. Scawen, Christopher P. Price
Primary Institution: Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Addenbrooke's Hospital
Hypothesis
The study investigates the performance of a two-stage enzymatic method for measuring serum paracetamol using a discrete analyser.
Conclusion
The enzymatic paracetamol assay can be effectively adapted for use in emergency laboratories with good precision and accuracy.
Supporting Evidence
- The enzymatic method showed good precision and accuracy when compared to HPLC methods.
- The assay can be completed in 6 minutes of analyser time.
- The reagents used in the assay were compatible with the discrete analyser.
Takeaway
This study shows a new way to quickly and accurately measure paracetamol in blood using a special machine.
Methodology
The study used a microcentrifugal analyser to perform a two-stage enzymatic reaction followed by colorimetric detection.
Limitations
The enzyme activity is lost after 30 minutes of contact with color reagents, which may limit the assay's usability.
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