Immunoreactive trypsinogen

Immunoreactive Trypsinogen (IRT) is a substance that doctors often measure in newborn blood samples to screen for cystic fibrosis. This article provides a detailed overview of Immunoreactive Trypsinogen, its role in the body, and its significance in medical diagnosis and treatment.

Overview

Immunoreactive Trypsinogen is a protein produced by the pancreas. It is released into the blood and can be measured in a blood sample. High levels of IRT can indicate a blockage in the pancreatic ducts, which is a common symptom of cystic fibrosis.

Role in the Body

The pancreas produces and releases IRT into the blood. It is a precursor to the enzyme trypsin, which aids in the digestion of proteins. In a healthy individual, the levels of IRT in the blood are relatively low. However, in individuals with cystic fibrosis, the ducts of the pancreas can become blocked, leading to an increase in the levels of IRT in the blood.

Medical Significance

IRT is often measured in newborn blood samples as part of a newborn screening for cystic fibrosis. If the levels of IRT are found to be high, further testing is usually recommended to confirm the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. It is important to note that while high levels of IRT can indicate cystic fibrosis, they can also be caused by other conditions, such as pancreatitis or a pancreatic duct obstruction.

Limitations

While the measurement of IRT levels in the blood is a useful tool in the screening for cystic fibrosis, it is not definitive. Other tests, such as a sweat test or a genetic test, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis. Furthermore, the levels of IRT in the blood can vary, and a single high reading does not necessarily indicate a problem.

See Also

• Cystic fibrosis
• Newborn screening
• Pancreatitis
• Pancreatic duct obstruction

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