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Quest Diagnostics

Drug Toxicology Alcohol Metabolite, with Confirmation, Oral Fluid

Test code(s) 93976

Ethyl sulfate (EtS) is the alcohol (ie, ethyl alcohol, ethanol) metabolite measured in this test.

EtS measurements are typically used to determine whether an individual has been exposed to alcohol (ethanol).

EtS concentration is measured in oral fluid using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). An EtS concentration of ≥25 ng/mL is considered positive for alcohol exposure. An EtS concentration <25 ng/mL is considered a negative result.

Yes, incidental exposure to alcohol can cause a positive result. This LC-MS/MS method detects EtS regardless of the source (ie, alcohol consumption, medication patch containing a high concentration of ethanol, etc). Therefore, we encourage you to interpret test results in context with the clinical picture.

EtS may be detectable for 24 hours or more after ingestion and depends on the alcohol exposure patterns, metabolite elimination, and test cutoff.

Specimens are tested upon arrival at the laboratory, and results are reported within 1 to 3 days.

This test is currently performed at the Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute, Chantilly, VA, laboratory.

If you have any questions regarding this information or require assistance with interpreting these drug test results, please contact a Quest Diagnostics toxicology specialist at 1.877.40.RXTOX (1.877.407.9869). Specialists are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8am to 10pm ET.

This FAQ is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. A clinician’s test selection and interpretation, diagnosis, and patient management decisions should be based on his/her education, clinical expertise, and assessment of the patient.

Document FAQS.183 Version: 1
Version 1: Effective 12/6/2018 to present
Version 0: Effective 06/13/2016 to 12/6/2018
 

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