Test Category: Specialist Biochemistry
Investigation Name:Cholinesterase (Serum/Plasma)
Accreditation:UKAS ISO15189:2022 Accredited test: On scope
Intro:
Poisoning due to organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides is uncommon in the UK though fatalities still occur. Organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides covalently inhibit neural, erythrocyte and plasma cholinesterase to varying extents and with different time courses.Acetylcholinesterase is present in human erythrocytes as well as in the target synapses and the activity of acetylcholinesterase in red cells is assumed to mirror that in the target organs (liver, pancreas, heart, white matter of the brain).
Pseudocholinesterase or cholinesterase II (EC 3.1.1.8), BCHE produced by the liver and also found in serum, plasma, heart and other tissues. This is non-specific for choline esters however it converts butyrycholine 4 times more rapidly than acetylcholine.
Measurement of cholinesterase is indicated in suspected organophosphate insecticide poisoning and for the identification of patients with low enzyme activities that are at risk of scoline apnoea.
Pathology Laboratory:Manuals Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Minimum Sample Volume:2mls EDTA plasma
Expected Turnaround Time:1 working day
Test Code:CHOS/ CHOP
Sample Type:
Preferred sample type: EDTA plasma.Cholinesterase activity can be measured in serum EDTA or Lithium heparanised plasma.
Complex Reference Range:CHOS - 2879-12669 U/L
CHOP - 5320 - 12920 U/L
Collection Conditions / Other Information:Blood Samples referred to this laboratory should be sent unfrozen by first class post as soon as it is practicable, i.e. Monday – Thursday.
Cholinesterase is stable without loss of activity for 7 days at 2-8 °C, for 6 hrs at 15-30°C and 6 months at -70°C.
Avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Samples should be brought to room temperature and mixed before analysis.
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Store samples at +2-8 0C prior to postage.
Posting Address / Requirements:Ambient temperature, 1st Class Post
Sandwell Health Campus
Pathology Department
Specialist Chemistry
Lyndon,
B71 4HJ
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available:Yes
EQA Scheme:UK NEQAS Cholinesterase scheme.
Lead Contact Details:Consultant Clinical Scientist, Hayley Sharrod-Cole,
Email: hayley.sharrod-cole@nhs.net
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Site Sample Tested:Sandwell Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:Tel: 0121 507 5162
