The cholinesterase test is a laboratory test requested mainly to check poisoning or the degree of exposure of the person to toxic products, such as pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers, for example. This test is more suitable for farmers, as they are in constant contact with agricultural products.
Cholinesterase is an enzyme present in the body responsible for the breakdown of a substance called acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for controlling nerve impulses to muscles. There are two classes of cholinesterase:
- Erythrocyte cholinesterase, which is carried by red blood cells; Plasma or serum cholinesterase: cholinesterase produced by the liver, pancreas and small intestine and circulating in the blood plasma.
Monitoring cholinesterase levels is important so that any changes can be quickly identified and treated, avoiding complications for the person.
What is it for
Cholinesterase testing is recommended by the doctor primarily to monitor the degree of exposure of farmers, for example, to insecticides and pesticides. In addition, the dosage of this enzyme can be requested to monitor patients with liver disease, especially those undergoing liver transplantation.
In addition, cholinesterase dosage is indicated in people who have mutations that interfere with the proper functioning or production of this enzyme.
Reference values
The cholinesterase test reference values vary according to the laboratory and the kit used to perform the test. Thus, normal reference values can be between:
- Men: 4620 - 11500 U / L Women: 3930 - 10800 U / L
This test is done like any other blood test, that is, a small blood sample is collected and sent to the laboratory to be analyzed by the biochemistry sector. According to the laboratory it may be recommended to fast for at least 4 hours.
What the results mean
Low levels of cholinesterase mainly indicate prolonged exposure to organophosphate pesticides, but low values can also be related to hepatitis, malnutrition, infections, anemia, acute myocardial infarction, severe pernicious anemia, aplastic anemia and burns.
In cases where there is intoxication by substances present in insecticides or herbicides (organophosphates), there is low cholinesterase in the body, causing severe symptoms such as: stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, salivation, visual difficulty, hypotension, muscle weakness or paralysis.
On the other hand, high levels of cholinesterase, usually happen due to obesity, diabetes, nephrotic syndrome and hyperthyroidism.
