Direct determination of total serum cholesterin in serum

Abstract

A specific method for the determination of serum cholesterol of the greatest simplicity is proposed. Serum is treated with acetic anhydride which changes the water into acetic acid and the cholesterol (both free and sterified) into cholesteryl acetate. The proteins are precipitated and adhere to the walls of the tube. Cool and decant into another tube. Sulphuric acid is added and the green colour is evaluated with the aid of a standard cholesterol solution in acetic anhydride simultaneously treated, with occasional deduction of the colour of the extract in case of hyperpigmented serums.