Which enzyme's activity can show false elevations due to dilution in samples?

Study for the Harr Clinical Chemistry Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions for each topic covered. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you understand. Prepare effectively for success!

The activity of amylase can show false elevations due to dilution in samples because amylase is an enzyme that is enzymatically active across a broader range of concentrations. When samples are diluted, particularly if the dilution factor is not adequately taken into account, the measured enzyme activity can appear higher than the actual concentration present.

This often occurs if the dilution causes the substrate to be present at a concentration where the enzyme's kinetics begin to saturate. In simple terms, if there is too much enzyme or substrate, the activity measured may not reflect true physiological conditions, leading to misleadingly elevated results.

In contrast, other enzymes listed may also be affected by dilution but for different reasons or to a lesser extent. For instance, lipase and creatine kinase may have more stable activities relative to their concentration due to their respective characteristics or the conditions under which they are measured. Glutamate dehydrogenase does not typically exhibit the same issues with dilution as amylase, making amylase the one most commonly associated with false elevations under such circumstances.

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