[Activity of N-acetylo-beta-hexosamninidase in joint fluid from knee and serum of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis].

N-acetyl-beta-hexosoaminidase (Hex) is a lysosomal enzyme which releases N-acetylaminohexose from non reducing end of glycosaminoglycans, glycoproteins and glycolipids, taking part in degradation of these substances. It is not known what role Hex plays in the degradation of joints in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The aim of our work was evaluation of Hex activity in synovial fluid and serum of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.