Reference values for erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase and plasma cholinesterase activities in children, implications for organophosphate intoxication

Acetylcholinesterase and cholinesterase activity was measured in the blood of both healthy children 0-12 years of age and adults by a recently developed radiochemical method. Children less than 4 months of age were found to have lower levels for these enzymes than adults. Above this age, however, similar values were obtained for children and adults. A case report of an organophosphate intoxication is presented and is discussed in the light of our results.