MYELOPEROXIDASE, 330 mL

PRINCIPLE

Myeloperoxidase is an enzyme which is widely distributed in the body and its main sources are found in leukocytes (neutrophils and monocytes) and macrophages. This enzyme combines in vivo with hydrogen peroxide, and is transformed into a powerful bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal agent. The cytochemical demonstration of this enzyme is based on its reaction with pyronin in the presence of alpha-naphthol and hydrogen peroxide, producing a bright red compound which remains in the cell after rinsing with water. Mayers haematoxylin is used to stain the nuclei. Various pathological processes are linked to an increase in myeloperoxidase activity, as is the case in infectious diseases, infl ammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, and ischaemia.
It is used in haematology for diagnosing leukaemia, as it enables myeloid and lymphoid cells to be diff erentiated. A defi ciency of myeloperoxidase in mature polymorphonuclear cells, except in cases of congenital defi ciency, should be interpreted as a sign of dysgranulopoiesis.

DIAGNOSTIC USE

For the diff erential staining of myeloperoxidase granulations in peripheral blood and bone marrow smears.