Reference values for erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and plasma cholinesterase activities in children, implications for organophosphate intoxication

Abstract

Acetylcholinesterase and cholinesterase activity was measured in the blood of both healthy children 0–12 years of age and adults by a recently developed radiochemical method. Children less than 4 months of age were found to have lower levels for these enzymes than adults. Above this age, however, similar values were obtained for children and adults. A case report of an organophosphate intoxication is presented and is discussed in the light of our results.

Key Words:

• Acetylcholinesterase
• cholinesterase
• childhood
• organophosphate intoxication