Overview
Diagnosis
Pseudocholinesterase deficiency may be suspected if you experience problems regaining muscle control and normal breathing after receiving the muscle relaxant succinylcholine during anesthesia. A blood test can measure the levels of pseudocholinesterase enzyme in your body.
To confirm inherited pseudocholinesterase deficiency, genetic testing is used to identify the gene change responsible for the disorder. A blood sample is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis. Your healthcare provider may also recommend testing family members before surgery.
Treatment
If you have pseudocholinesterase deficiency, your anesthesiologist can avoid using succinylcholine, which may trigger prolonged muscle relaxation. Alternative muscle relaxants can be selected to prevent complications.
There is no cure for pseudocholinesterase deficiency. If a muscle relaxant prolongs recovery from anesthesia, medical assistance may be required. Support may include mechanical ventilation to help with breathing and sedation until you can breathe independently, which can take several hours.
People with pseudocholinesterase deficiency may also be sensitive to other medications, including local anesthetics such as procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, and cocaine.
It is recommended to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace and carry a wallet card if diagnosed with pseudocholinesterase deficiency. This informs healthcare professionals of your condition, especially in emergency situations.
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