Symptoms

For most people with pseudocholinesterase deficiency, no signs or symptoms of the condition occur until they're exposed to the muscle relaxants succinylcholine or mivacurium. These drugs are used as part of anesthesia. Then signs and symptoms include muscle relaxation or muscle paralysis that lasts for several hours, with the inability to breathe on your own. The length of muscle relaxation may vary widely among people with this deficiency.

When to see a doctor

If you have a family history of pseudocholinesterase deficiency or a family member who had any problem with anesthesia, tell your doctor before you have any medical procedure that requires anesthesia.