SERUM-LIPID PEROXIDE AND OTHER ENZYME LEVELS OF PATIENTS SUFFERING FROM THERMAL-INJURY

he levels of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of transaminases and alkaline phosphatases were estimated in the sera of 25 thermally injured patients at various time interval s after injury. The level of MDA was increased during the early postbu rn period, whereas the activities of transaminase and alkaline phospha tase became elevated later after injury. It is concluded that an incre ased concentration of lipid peroxidation product (MDA) in the early po stburn period may affect the spleen, liver and kidney, resulting in th e release of enzymes into blood stream. Stich damage may be checked by the antioxidants superoxide dismutase or allopurinol.