hyaluronidase (redirected from Vitrase)

hyaluronidase /hy·al·uron·i·dase/ (hi?ah-ldbobr-ron´i-das) any of three enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid and similar glycosaminoglycans, found in snake and spider venom, in mammalian testicular and spleen tissue, and produced by various pathogenic bacteria, enabling them to spread through tissues; a preparation from mammalian testes is used to aid absorption and dispersion of other injected drugs and fluids, for hypodermoclysis, and for improving resorption of radiopaque media.

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hy·a·lu·ron·i·dase (h-l-rn-ds, -dz)

n.

Any of three enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, thus increasing tissue permeability to fluids. One or more of these enzymes occur in the testes and in spermatozoa.

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hyaluronidase (hī´lyooron´dās),

n an enzyme that produces hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, the cementing substance of the tissues. Produced by certain pathogenic bacteria and also formed by sperm.

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hyaluronidase

an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of hyaluronic acid, the 'cement material' of connective tissues; it is found in leeches, snake and spider venom, in testes, and is produced by various pathogenic bacteria, enabling them to spread through tissue. A preparation from mammalian testes is used to promote absorption and diffusion of solutions injected subcutaneously. When hyaluronidase is mixed with fluids administered subcutaneously, absorption is more rapid and less uncomfortable. Hyaluronidase should not be given in areas where there is infection. Since it hastens absorption, it must be given with caution when administered with toxic drugs, as the toxic reaction can occur very rapidly.