The estimation of two alpha(1) glycoproteins (orosomucoid and another alpha(1) acid glycoprotein) in health and disease.

The normal values for orosomucoid and the alpha(1) 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 alpha(1) 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 alpha(1) 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 alpha(1) 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.