COLORIMETRIC DETERMINATION OF SERUM CHOLINESTERASE: ITS VALUE IN HEPATIC AND BILIARY TRACT DISEASES 1

Abstract

In 47 normal subjects the average level of serum cholinesterase as determined colorimetrically was 29.6 units per 100 cc. (range, 19.2-50.6). Corresponding values for 24 decompensated cirrhotics were 5.0 units (1.0-13.3); for 23 compensated cirrhotics, 19.6 units (8.0-38.4); and for 13 cases of acute viral hepatitis, 16.1 units (5.3-25.6). In 10 cases diagnosed clinically as obstructive jaundice, the level was depressed in 5 with pancreatic carcinoma, normal in 3 with choledocholithiasis and normal in 2 cases of viral hepatitis. In serial detns. the level of serum cholinesterase reflected faithfully the course of acute viral hepatitis and decompensated cirrhosis. In no instance, however, did it contradict the clinical impression and other laboratory evidence. Single detns. of serum cholinesterase in 54 subjects (22 controls, 24 cirrhotics, and 8 cases of malnutrition) were plotted against serum albumin detd. by an immunological method. With one exception, those cases with normal albumin had normal cholinesterase and those with depressed albumin had low cholinesterase. This relationship was further shown by the gradual rise in both values during recovery from acute viral hepatitis.