Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum

• Test Name: Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test
• Test Type: Enzyme activity assay
• Specimen Required: Blood sample (serum)
• Methodology: Spectrophotometric or enzymatic assay
• Purpose: Measures the activity of pseudocholinesterase, an enzyme produced in the liver, to evaluate liver function, detect genetic enzyme deficiencies, or assess sensitivity to certain anaesthetics.

• Liver Function Assessment: Used to evaluate liver function, as low levels of pseudocholinesterase can indicate liver disease or damage.
• Genetic Screening: Identifies inherited pseudocholinesterase deficiency, which can cause increased sensitivity to certain muscle relaxants used in anesthesia, such as succinylcholine.
• Poisoning Diagnosis: Helps diagnose exposure to organophosphate pesticides or nerve agents, which can inhibit cholinesterase activity.
• Preoperative Evaluation: Assesses the risk of prolonged paralysis or apnea during surgery in patients who may have pseudocholinesterase deficiency.

• Components:
  • Collection of a blood sample from the patient.
  • Measurement of pseudocholinesterase activity in the serum using an enzymatic assay.
  • Calibration with standard controls to ensure the accuracy and precision of the test.
  • Reporting of enzyme activity in units per litre (U/L)
     
• Procedure:
  • A blood sample is drawn and the serum is separated for analysis.
  • The enzyme activity is measured using a spectrophotometric method or similar technique.
  • Results are compared to reference ranges for interpretation.

• Normal Findings: Enzyme activity within the normal reference range, indicating normal liver function and no enzyme deficiency.
• Low Enzyme Activity: This may indicate liver disease, inherited pseudocholinesterase deficiency, or exposure to cholinesterase-inhibiting substances like organophosphates.
• High Enzyme Activity: Rare, but may occur in certain metabolic conditions or with certain medications.
• Clinical Correlation: Results should be interpreted alongside other liver function tests and clinical findings to diagnose or assess conditions accurately.

• Qualitative and Quantitative: Provides a quantitative measurement of pseudocholinesterase enzyme activity.
• Interpretation: Results are interpreted based on established reference ranges and the clinical context of the patient.
• Report: A detailed report includes the measured enzyme activity and its clinical significance.
• Turnaround Time: Typically 1-2 days, depending on the laboratory.

Q. What is the Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test?
This test measures the activity of pseudocholinesterase, an enzyme important for liver function and the breakdown of certain drugs and toxins
 

Q. Why would a doctor order the Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test?
It may be ordered to assess liver function, screen for inherited enzyme deficiency, or evaluate the risk of adverse reactions to certain anaesthetics
 

Q. How is the Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test performed?
A blood sample is taken and analyzed in a laboratory to measure the enzyme's activity using a spectrophotometric or enzymatic assay
 

Q. What do low levels of pseudocholinesterase indicate?
Low levels may indicate liver disease, genetic enzyme deficiency, or exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors like certain pesticides
 

Q. What is pseudocholinesterase deficiency?
It is a genetic condition that results in low levels of the enzyme, leading to increased sensitivity to certain muscle relaxants used in anaesthesia, which can cause prolonged effects
 

Q. How should I prepare for the Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test?
No special preparation is required, but inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some can affect enzyme activity
 

Q. How long does it take to get results from the Cholinesterase (Pseudocholinesterase) Serum Test?
Results are usually available within 1-2 days after the blood sample is analyzed in the laboratory