Pentose estimation by the orcinol method, with particular reference to plasma pentose

Using the modification of the orcinol reaction described, the mean total plasma pentose in normal adults was found to be 0.7 mg per 100 ml.

Abstract

Modification of the orcinol reaction for the quantitative estimation of pentose was studied particularly in relation to interference by glucose. It was shown that variations in concentration of orcinol, concentration of ferric chloride, time of heating and batch of orcinol alter considerably the pentose-orcinol and glucose-orcinol reactions. In carrying out the orcinol reaction, it is necessary that all reagents and conditions are kept constant, and in the estimation of plasma pentoses allowance must be made for the plasma glucose. Using the modification of the orcinol reaction described, the mean total plasma pentose in normal adults was found to be 0.7 mg per 100 ml.