Plasma cholinesterase studies in some pathological conditions in man

A review of pathological conditions and of specifie drugs which may affect plasma cholinesterase in man has been made. Short of experimental D.F.P. injections, there appear to be very few instances where reduction of plasma cholinesterase would bring it to such low values as to become a contra-indication to the use of succinylcholine. However, cases of severe hepatic damage and cachectic states exhibit the lowest plasma cholinesterase levels and, for that reason, it would seem advisable to exercise extreme care in the use of this relaxant.