Plasma cholinesterase activity in infants

Plasma cholinesterase (PChE) activity was measured in 20 infants 2-6 months of age and in 20 male adults. In infants PChE activity was by 20% lower than in adults (P < 0.05). This reduction is probably not enough to prolong the action of muscle relaxants, degraded by PChE. A significantly lower albumin concentration in infants than in adults has also been established (P < 0.05). The results of our investigations indicate parallel-diminished synthesis of PChE and albumin in infants liver cells.