di·bu·caine num·ber (DN),

(dib'yū-kān nŭm'bĕr),

A test for differentiation of one of several forms of atypical pseudocholinesterases that are unable to inactivate succinylcholine at normal rates; based on the percentage of inhibition of the enzymes by dibucaine, normal enzyme has a DN of at least 75 and higher, heterozygous atypical enzyme has a DN of 40-70, and homozygous atypical enzyme has a DN of less than 20.
See also: fluoride number.

Farlex Partner Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012

Mentioned in

References in periodicals archive

A method for the detection of atypical forms of human serum cholinesterase; determination of dibucaine numbers. Can J Biochem Physiol 1957;35:339-46.

A patient with prolonged paralysis

(4) Nonstandard abbreviations: BCHE, butyrylcholine esterase; DN, dibucaine number; FN, fluoride number; SSCP, single-strand conformation polymorphism; and RFLP, restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Genetic mutations of butyrylcholine esterase identified from phenotypic abnormalities in Japan

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.