title: Plasma cholinesterase variants and the anaesthetist.
abstract: Biochemical properties of plasma cholinesterase of significance to the anaesthetist are reviewed. The role of the genetic variants of the enzyme in suxamethonium sensitivity and hyperthermia are discussed with emphasis on the pregnant patient. Altered gene frequencies of the enzyme variants in some mental disorders is commented upon.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000758:Anesthesia; D001049:Apnea / Q000188:drug therapy; D002802:Cholinesterases / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005787:Gene Frequency; D005796:Genes; D014644:Genetic Variation; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008305:Malignant Hyperthermia / Q000201:enzymology / Q000235:genetics; D011247:Pregnancy; D013390:Succinylcholine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D002802:Cholinesterases; D013390:Succinylcholine