Texas Pesticide Applicator Practice Exam

An example of a chronic effect caused by organophosphates and carbamates is a drop in what essential body enzyme?

1. Hemoglobin

2. Cholinesterase

3. Insulin

4. Amylase

The correct answer is: Cholinesterase

The correct answer is cholinesterase, which is an essential enzyme in the human body responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters, particularly acetylcholine, in the synaptic cleft. Organophosphates and carbamates are known to inhibit the activity of cholinesterase, leading to an accumulation of acetylcholine. This accumulation can result in prolonged stimulation of the nervous system, manifesting in various symptoms, including muscle twitching, respiratory distress, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening. A drop in cholinesterase activity is a significant indicator of exposure to these pesticides and can help in the assessment of pesticide poisoning. Monitoring cholinesterase levels is regularly employed in occupational health settings, especially for individuals who work in environments where organophosphate and carbamate pesticides are used. The other options, such as hemoglobin, insulin, and amylase, do not have the same direct correlation with the chronic effects caused by organophosphate and carbamate exposure. Hemoglobin is primarily involved in oxygen transport in the blood, insulin regulates blood sugar levels, and amylase is an enzyme that aids in carbohydrate digestion. Thus, a drop in cholinesterase is specifically relevant and a primary concern in the context of