Cholinesterase Serum

This test measures the activity of the enzyme butyrylcholinesterase (pseudocholinesterase) and its response to the drug dibucaine. It assesses genetic variants that affect how the body metabolizes certain anesthetic drugs, particularly succinylcholine and mivacurium. A low dibucaine number or absence of response indicates a genetic variation that impairs drug metabolism, putting individuals at risk for prolonged paralysis during anesthesia. This test is critical before surgery to identify those requiring modified anesthetic protocols.

Red blood cell cholinesterase is an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter. This test detects exposure to organophosphate pesticides or nerve agents that inhibit this enzyme. Low cholinesterase levels indicate poisoning or exposure to these toxic substances, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, excessive salivation, and difficulty breathing. This test is the preferred method for detecting chronic organophosphate exposure and is used in occupational health monitoring and poisoning investigations.