Selenium

The serum cholinesterase test is an essential diagnostic tool used to evaluate the activity of the enzyme pseudocholinesterase, which plays a critical role in drug metabolism and nerve function. This test is primarily used to assess exposure to organophosphate pesticides, which can inhibit cholinesterase activity, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine and resulting in symptoms like muscle weakness and respiratory failure. Additionally, it is crucial in preoperative evaluations to identify individuals with a genetic deficiency of pseudocholinesterase, who are at risk of prolonged apnea after receiving the muscle relaxant succinylcholine during anesthesia. The test involves a simple blood draw, with no special preparation required, and results are interpreted with caution due to variability among individuals. While it has limitations and potential sources of error, such as laboratory inaccuracies and substance interference, the serum cholinesterase test remains vital in diagnosing and managing exposure to toxic substances and ensuring patient safety during surgical procedures.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

Serum cholinesterase is vital for drug metabolism and acetylcholine breakdown, crucial for nerve function. Testing its levels helps in:

- Organophosphate Exposure: Detects exposure to pesticides, preventing nerve overstimulation.
- Surgical Risk Assessment: Identifies genetic deficiencies affecting anesthesia response.

The test involves a simple blood draw, with no special preparation needed. Normal values range from 8 to 18 U/mL. Abnormal results may indicate pesticide exposure, genetic issues, or liver disease. Interpretation requires caution due to variability and potential errors.

Who Should Get Tested

The selenium lab test is vital for assessing selenium levels in the body, crucial for antioxidant defense, immune function, and thyroid hormone metabolism. It helps identify:

- Deficiency: Detects low selenium levels, preventing issues like cardiomyopathy and muscle weakness.
- Toxicity: Identifies excessive selenium intake, avoiding symptoms like garlic breath and neurological issues.
- Therapy Monitoring: Ensures effective selenium replacement therapy by adjusting dosages.

Specimens are collected using specific tubes, and results are interpreted to guide clinical decisions, ensuring optimal health outcomes.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results for serum cholinesterase is crucial for diagnosing and managing exposure to organophosphate pesticides and assessing risks related to succinylcholine anesthesia. Key points include:

- Normal Values: Typically range from 8 to 18 U/mL, but can vary by lab.
- Abnormal Results: May indicate pesticide exposure, genetic deficiencies, or liver disease.
- Interpretation: Consider individual variability and potential interference from medications or conditions.
- Clinical Applications: Useful for detecting organophosphate toxicity and identifying succinylcholine sensitivity.

Careful interpretation ensures effective patient management and safety.

Price of test:£94

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £94

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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