Carotene, plasma or serum

The determination of carotene in serum or plasma is a useful chemical screening method for the detection of fat malabsorption. Carotene is a fat-soluable pigment that is slowly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract. The absorption of carotene requires the presence of dietary lipids and bile salts. When malabsorption of fat occurs, serum carotene is greatly decreased. Carotene levels are lowest in primary malabsorption. Carotene levels are low in enteritis, many diseases associated with steatorrhea, high fever, hepatic disease and deficient diet. Carotene levels can be increased in diabetes, hyperlipedemia, carotenemia and hypothyroidism.