Content
The cholinesterase test is a laboratory test requested in order to verify the degree of exposure of the person to toxic products, such as pesticides, insecticides, herbicides or fertilizers, for example, being therefore more suitable for farmers, since 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, which is cholinesterase produced by the liver, pancreas and small intestine and circulating in the blood plasma.
Monitoring of cholinesterase levels is important so that any changes can be quickly identified and treated, avoiding complications for the person.
What is it for
The examination of cholinesterase is recommended by the doctor mainly 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 who have undergone liver transplantation, as they usually have decreased cholinesterase levels.
Cholinesterase dosage can also be indicated for people who have mutations that interfere with the correct 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, which are substances present in insecticides, pesticides and herbicides capable of inhibiting the activity of this enzyme, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine and which may result in the appearance of some signs and symptoms, such as:
- Cramps;
- Diarrhea;
- Vomiting;
- Excessive salivation;
- Visual difficulty;
- Decreased blood pressure;
- Muscle weakness;
- Paralysis.
Although the decrease in cholinesterase levels is mainly related to intoxication, there may also be a decrease in this enzyme in case of hepatitis, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, acute infection and infarction.
Therefore, it is important that the results of the cholinesterase test are interpreted together with the results of other tests so that the cause of the decrease in this enzyme is identified and the most appropriate treatment can be indicated.
On the other hand, high levels of cholinesterase, usually happen due to obesity, diabetes, nephrotic syndrome and hyperthyroidism.
