Stable reagents for determination of serum triglycerides by a colorimetric Hantzsch condensation method.

We describe a modified method for determining triglycerides in serum, in which alumina is used to adsorb interfering substances, and the glycerol content of triglycerides is determined colorimetrically. In contrast to all previous Hantzsch condensation procedures in which periodate and acetylacetone are used, the working periodate and the working acetylacetone reagents are stable for at least six months because they are differently formulated. The principle that governs this increased stability applies to all Hantzsch condensation methods for triglycerides.