Measurement of serum proteins during attacks of ulcerative colitis as a guide to patient management.

Serial measurements of 11 serum proteins have been made throughout 39 admissions of 36 patients to hospital for the treatment of acute attacks of ulcerative colitis. There was a striking correlation between rapid changes in C-reactive protein and pre-albumin concentrations and the clinical response to medical treatment. Measurements of the alpha1-acid glycoprotein, albumin, and total serum protein concentrations at the time of admission were found to correlate with the outcome of the attack. Measurement of these proteins provides a useful guide to the management of patients with attacks of ulcerative colitis.