Ethanol, Serum or Plasma - Medical
Also known as: ETOH
Use
The Ethanol, Serum or Plasma test is used to identify acute alcohol ingestion. It helps determine alcohol levels in biological samples for medical purposes, particularly in emergency toxicology assessments. The test is crucial in managing cases of suspected alcohol intoxication and monitoring ethanol levels in patients with alcohol use disorders.
Special Instructions
This test must be arranged considering the timing of exposure and should be conducted upon the patient's presentation to the hospital. Use a nonalcohol-based cleanser at the venipuncture site to avoid contamination when drawing blood for alcohol testing.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes. The limit of detection varies based on instrumentation, and no normal range is established.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 14336-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection. Cap tube tightly to minimize alcohol loss.
Patient Preparation
Timing of specimen collection: Dependent on time of exposure, test upon presentation to hospital.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Whole blood, Plasma Separator Tubes (PST), Serum Separator Tubes (SST).
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 week |
| Frozen | 1 month |