Red cell transketolase as an indicator of nutritional deficiency

Abstract

A subclinical thiamin deficiency is frequent in school-age children, old people, patients, pregnant women and alcoholics. The transketolase activity of the red blood cells and the percent of thiamin uptake are sensitive indicators of thiamin deficiency. In patients with B12 deficiency and severe liver diseases transketolase activity is spuriously increased. Transketolase activity in the brain is reduced and leads to neurological abnormalities. A double blind trial is required to ascribe these symptoms to thiamin deficiency as most of these symptoms are unspecific. 5.0 mg thiamin are absorbed in 24 hrs in healthy people. If this dose is exceeded then idiosyncrasy occurs. Folates or protein deficiency reduce the intestinal transport of thiamin. In these cases thiamin should be administered parenterally or as allithiamin.