Toluene, Occupational Exposure, Blood
Use
This test measures toluene levels in the blood to monitor occupational exposure to this volatile organic compound. Toluene exposure is common in industrial settings, where it is used as a solvent in paints, paint thinners, and glues, as well as a precursor in chemical synthesis. Monitoring blood levels helps ensure safety compliance with occupational exposure limits. Elevated toluene levels correlate with acute toxicity and can guide early intervention to prevent adverse health effects.
Special Instructions
Blood should be collected in 2 green top (sodium heparin) tubes, filled completely to prevent volatile compound loss. Proper handling and timely refrigeration are critical to maintain specimen integrity. Medtox Laboratories performs the analysis using validated methodologies.
Limitations
Blood toluene concentration may be affected by improper handling or incomplete filling of collection tubes, leading to inaccurate results. Hemolysis, lipemia, and icterus can interfere with the assay. Due to the volatile nature of toluene, even slight delays in handling or discrepancies in specimen volume can significantly impact measured values. The method used is sensitive to volatile organic solvents such as toluene but not necessarily specific to toluene alone, necessitating appropriate context and interpretation alongside occupational history.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 9637-0
- 9637-0
Result Turnaround Time
7-11 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
20 mL
Minimum Volume
5 mL
Container
2 green top (sodium heparin) tubes
Collection Instructions
Draw blood filling the tubes completely to prevent loss of volatile compounds.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate specimens immediately after collection.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis, Lipemia, Icterus, Other
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 365 days |