Jaffé method
The Jaffe method is a test used in laboratories to measure the concentration of creatinine in blood serum and urine. Creatinine is a waste product of muscle metabolism and an important indicator of kidney function. The method was discovered by Max Jaffé in 1886 and later adapted for clinical use by Otto Folin.
How does it work?
The method is based on a color reaction: creatinine reacts with picric acid in an alkaline solution generated by sodium hydroxide and forms a red-colored complex. The intensity of this color is measured at 520 nm, and the more intense the color, the higher the creatinine concentration.
Implementation
For serum, a protein-free filtrate is first prepared by removing proteins by centrifugation with sodium tartrate and sulphuric acid to avoid interference. The filtrate is then mixed with picric acid and sodium hydroxide and incubated. In the case of urine, which normally contains few proteins, the sample can be used directly and mixed with the reagents.
Measurement and evaluation
The color of the resulting complex is measured with a device that absorbs light at 520 nm. The concentration is determined by comparison with a standard curve generated from samples with known creatinine concentrations. Modern systems often use kinetic methods in which the rate of color development is measured to improve accuracy.
Advantages and problems
The Jaffe method is simple and inexpensive, which makes it popular in many laboratories around the world. However, it can be interfered with by other substances such as glucose or medication, which can lead to false results. Therefore, careful interpretation of the results is important, especially for patients on certain medications.
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