RAPID METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF FAT IN FECES

Abstract

Methods for the determination of the total amount of fat in feces and of the relative proportions of free and combined fatty acids are described. They are based on the principle that fatty acids and fat can be extracted almost quantitatively with petroleum ether from an acidic, alcoholic solution of about 60 per cent ethanol, saturated with NaCl and containing a small amount of amyl alcohol. By these methods the fat in feces can be measured within 35 to 45 minutes with an error not exceeding 2 per cent.