Question
In neonatology, there is an abnormal N-acetylgalactosaminidase test result. The maternal examination is normal, but why is there a positive reaction?
Answer
N-Acetylgalactosaminidase is present in high concentrations in the proximal tubule epithelial cells. The activity of β-galactosidase in urine can be used to reflect the kidney’s parenchyma, particularly the early damage to the renal tubules. When measured together with urinary N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, urine enzyme analysis can be performed, which aids in disease course observation and prognosis evaluation. The normal range is 2.51 to 14.3 iu/L (colorimetric method). Related diseases include: proximal renal tubular acidosis, mixed renal tubular acidosis, type IV renal tubular acidosis, Fanconi syndrome, medullary cystic disease, Fanconi syndrome, proximal renal tubular acidosis, total distal renal tubular acidosis, tubulointerstitial nephritis, multiple renal tubular dysfunction syndrome, distal renal tubular acidosis, acute tubular necrosis, type II renal tubular acidosis, type I renal tubular acidosis, acute tubular necrosis, renal tubular acidification dysfunction, and renal tubular atrophy. Related tests include: urine estrone.