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Alcohol Tests

Choosing the right alcohol test for your needs is easy with our 3/3/3 rule: consider the timeframe of alcohol consumption you're interested in - three days, three weeks, or three months. For detection of alcohol consumption over the longest period, nail and hair tests provide an effective solution, indicating high alcohol intake within a typical three-month window. If you're seeking a shorter timeline, blood tests can reveal significant alcohol consumption over an average of three weeks. For the most recent alcohol intake, usually within three days, urine tests are your go-to option. This simple 3/3/3 guideline assists in selecting the most appropriate alcohol test based on your specific requirements.​

EtG Testing

EtG is a direct metabolite of alcohol (ethanol). Its presence may be used to detect recent ethanol ingestion, even after ethanol is no longer measurable. The presence of EtG is an indicator that ethanol was ingested.

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EtG is only evident when ethanol is ingested and is not produced as a result of fermentation.

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  • Detects recent usage more accurately and for a longer period of time than standard testing

  • Ideal for zero tolerance and abstinence situations

  • Strong indicator of alcohol ingestion within the previous 3 to 4 days

  • EtG is only evident when alcohol is consumed and is not produced as a result of fermentation

  • Allows monitoring in alcohol treatment programs

  • Acts as an early warning system to detect trends towards relapse

  • Tests are performed by LC/MS/MS on state of the art equipment for accuracy and reliability

  • 24 TO 36 hour turnaround time from receipt of specimen

Negroni Cocktail
Hand Reaching Out

PEth Alcohol Detection

Dried blood spot collection is the fastest, most convenient way to test for phosphatidylethanol (PEth)Phosphatidylethanol (PEth)PEth is created in red blood cells where it exists as part of the cell membrane. Research suggests a PEth test can differentiate between incidental exposure (hand sanitizer use, etc.) and the intentional use of ethanol. A PEth test in blood gives up to approximately 2-4 week history of alcohol (ab)use. We offer PEth testing in both dried blood spots and whole blood. The specimen amount is 5 dried blood spots from a finger puncture or 5 ml of blood from a standard blood draw using anticoagulation tube collection.

 

Standard collection supplies provided include 2 lancets, 2 non-ethanol-based alcohol pads, gauze, a collection card, and the dried blood spot drying box. We also provide the requisition form for the collection, which includes all necessary barcode stickers to maintain a proper chain of custody. Unlike venipuncture, dried blood spot collection is performed by the individual being tested (the donor) and can be observed by any staff member after a short training session. The dried blood spot drying box makes the collection even easier by eliminating wait time. PEth is an abnormal phospholipid formed in red blood cells following alcohol exposure. PEth in blood exists as a component of the red cell membrane. PEth is a mid to long-term alcohol biomarker, and a positive result (measuring phosphatidyl ethanol species 16:0/18:1) is an indication of alcohol exposure during the ~2-4 weeks prior to specimen collection.

Collection Amount

 

5 individual large drops on a dried blood spot collection card.

DETECTION PERIOD

 

Up to approximately 2 - 3 weeks depending on the starting concentration of PEth.

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