The cholinesterase test is a laboratory test mainly requested to check for poisoning or the person's degree of exposure to toxic products, such as pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers, for example. This test is more suitable for farmers, since they are in constant contact with agricultural products.
Cholinesterase is an enzyme 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 the red blood cells;
- Plasma or serum cholinesterase: Cholinesterase produced by the liver, pancreas and small intestine and circulating in blood plasma.
Monitoring cholinesterase levels is important so that any change can be identified and treated quickly, avoiding complications for the person.
What is it for
Cholinesterase examination is recommended by the physician primarily to monitor the degree of exposure of farmers, for example to insecticides and pesticides. In addition, the dosage of this enzyme may be required to monitor patients with liver disease, especially those undergoing liver transplantation.
In addition, the dosage of cholinesterase is indicated in people who have mutations that interfere in the correct functioning or production of that enzyme.
Reference values
The cholinesterase test reference values vary according to the laboratory and the kit used to perform the test. Thus, the 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 for analysis by the biochemistry department. According to the laboratory it may be recommended to fast for at least 4 hours.
What do the results mean?
Low levels of cholinesterase indicate prolonged exposure to organophosphorus pesticides, but low values may also be related to hepatitis, malnutrition, infections, anemia, acute myocardial infarction, severe pernicious anemia, aplastic anemia, and burns.
In cases where there is poisoning by substances present in insecticides or herbicides (organophosphates), cholinesterase is low in the body, causing serious symptoms such as: stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, salivation, visual impairment, hypotension, muscular weakness or paralysis.
On the other hand, elevated levels of cholinesterase usually occur due to obesity, diabetes, nephrotic syndrome and hyperthyroidism.
