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Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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Test Code: 338
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
This test measures the level of cholinesterase in both plasma and red blood cells. Cholinesterase is several enzymes that play an important role in the functioning of the nervous system. There are several reasons why people typically check their cholinesterase levels.
Exposure to insecticides containing organophosphates can lower cholinesterase levels. Both acute and chronic exposure can cause toxicity that can lead to neurological damage. Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, headaches, dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, muscle weakness, twitching, loss of coordination, and difficulty breathing. Long term effects can include coma, seizure, or death. Testing cholinesterase levels can help to determine if a person has recently been exposed. People who routinely work with such chemicals may need to test periodically to monitor their levels and ensure they are not absorbing dangerous amounts of the chemicals over time.
Some people have an inherited disorder that limits the production of a form of a cholinesterase enzyme that helps the body metabolize succinylcholine, a chemical that is commonly used as anesthesia for people undergoing surgery. People with this type of deficiency may have difficulty recovering from anesthesia and suffer prolonged paralysis or difficulty breathing. Testing may be performed prior to undergoing surgery when someone has a family history of difficulty after being anesthetized.
Other conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, pregnancy, cancer, and malnutrition can also lower cholinesterase levels.
Turnaround for this test is typically 4-7 business days.
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Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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