Cholinesterase, Plasma
Also known as: Benzoylcholinesterase, Choline Esterase II, Pseudocholinesterase, Plasma
Use
Evaluate preoperative patients for succinylcholine (suxamethonium) anesthetic sensitivity, genetic or secondary to insecticide exposure, in appropriate circumstances. To prevent or evaluate prolonged anesthetic effect, prolonged apnea, after surgery. Very small amounts (0.04−0.06 mg/kg) of succinylcholine are needed to obtain 90% of neuromuscular blockade in patients with low levels of plasma cholinesterase activity.1
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Plasma cholinesterase may be decreased in individuals on estrogens or oral contraceptives, and fluoride interferes with the test. Pseudocholinesterase may be low in cases of liver disease and other conditions, but not consistently enough to be a useful clinical test for such disorders. The discovery of genetic atypical enzymes does not explain all cases of prolonged postsurgical apnea. Whole blood specimens can alter levels if plasma remains in contact with red cells for extended periods.
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
Cholinesterase
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 2098-2 - Cholinesterase SerPl-cCnc
- 2098-2 - Cholinesterase SerPl-cCnc
Result Turnaround Time
4-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection Instructions
Separate plasma from cells immediately and place in transport tube. Mark transport tube “plasma.” Use of other anticoagulants is not recommended.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Whole blood specimen; anticoagulants other than EDTA; hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |
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