In vivo measurements of body protein based on the determination of nitrogen by prompt gamma analysis
1979
McNeill, K.G. | Mernagh, J.R. | Jeejeebhoy, K.N. | Wolman, S.L. | Harrison, J.E.
The determination of nitrogen (N) by analysis of gamma ray emission is a new technique developed as a method for measurement of total body protein in vivo. The method is accurate, rapid and reproducible; radiation exposure in test subjects is low. Previously changes in nitrogen content in the body could only be estimated by balance studies; now, nutritionists can evaluate nutritional status of subjects on the basis of body protein. Data from 43 patients, 23 normal subjects and 13 hospital controls is reported. Results indicate mean percentage of N in normal males is 2.5% and does not differ significantly from that in malnourished patients, indicating that nitrogen content by itself is not diagnostic. Measurement of body potassium (K) has been found inadequate as a predictor of N. Direct analysis can be used in routine clinical assessments of nutritional status.
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