Serum cholinesterase

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Cholinestrase test

Acetylcholinesterase; RBC (or erythrocyte) cholinesterase; Pseudocholinesterase; Plasma cholinesterase; Butyrylcholinesterase

The normal value of acetylcholinesterase and pseudocholinesterase depends on the technique, and should be determined by the laboratory performing the test. Typically, normal pseudocholinesterase values range between 8 and 18 U/ml.

Note: U/ml = units per milliliter

Decreased pseudocholinesterase levels may be seen in:

• Congenital deficiency
• Poisoning with organophosphates
• Liver damage
• Acute infection
• Chronic malnutrition
• Metastasis
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Obstructive jaundice

Smaller decreases are seen during:

• Pregnancy
• Use of oral contraceptives

Review Date: 04/29/2005
Reviewed By: Frank A. Greco, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Biophysical Laborartory, The Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.