Fluorescent Immunoassay for Anticholinesterase Enzyme Activity in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the activity of enzymes that inhibit the breakdown of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. It may be used to assess exposure to certain pesticides or organophosphate compounds.
["This test helps evaluate potential poisoning from chemicals that interfere with nerve function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7927-7
- Short code
- FLUAV Pt Chal Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- FLUAV Pt Chal Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve been exposed to pesticides, insecticides, or other organophosphate compounds. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for symptoms like muscle weakness, confusion, or excessive salivation, which may suggest poisoning.
What Does the Test Measure?
The test detects the activity level of anticholinesterase enzymes in your blood. Normally, these enzymes break down acetylcholine, but when they’re inhibited (e.g., by toxins), acetylcholine builds up and can cause nerve system dysfunction.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a fluorescent immunoassay, which detects enzyme activity by measuring how well they bind to a fluorescent marker.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than numeric. A positive result suggests recent exposure to anticholinesterase inhibitors, while a negative result indicates no detectable inhibition of these enzymes.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Anticholinesterase Activity (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used as a diagnostic tool for suspected organophosphate poisoning. High enzyme inhibition may confirm exposure to pesticides or industrial chemicals that disrupt nerve signaling. Early detection can guide treatment, such as supportive care or specific antidotes.
A positive result means your blood contains anticholinesterase inhibitors, which may have been absorbed through exposure to pesticides, insecticides, or other chemicals. This can indicate poisoning and requires medical evaluation.
Results may appear within hours to days after exposure, depending on the type and amount of toxin ingested or absorbed. Symptoms (like muscle weakness) may also develop during this time.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy