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Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This test measures the level of 1,4-dioxane, an industrial chemical, in your blood to check for exposure.

Quick summary

{"1,4-Dioxane is a chemical used in manufacturing that may cause cancer","This test measures exposure levels in workers handling this chemical","Blood sample is collected and analyzed using gas chromatography","Results help monitor workplace safety and health risks","Exposure can occur through breathing, skin contact, or contaminated water"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14033-5
Short code
1,4-DIOX
Synonyms
1,4Dioxane Bld GC-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
EDTA (purple top) tube or sodium heparin (green top) tube; trace metal-free collection tube recommended
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
0.1
Critical range
— – 50 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Gas Chromatography (GC) with mass spectrometry detection
CPT
84600
SNOMED
413423006
Specimen volume
2-5 mL whole blood
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C) for longer storage up to 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
20
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 1,4-Dioxane blood test measures the amount of 1,4-dioxane in your blood. 1,4-Dioxane is a synthetic chemical primarily used as a solvent in manufacturing processes, including paint strippers, adhesives, and some consumer products. It is also a byproduct in the production of certain plastics and can be found in some groundwater near industrial sites.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where gas chromatography is used to separate and measure the amount of 1,4-dioxane present in your blood. This technique is highly sensitive and can detect even trace amounts of the chemical.

Why might I need this test?

This test is most commonly performed for occupational health monitoring. If you work in industries that use or produce 1,4-dioxane (such as chemical manufacturing, plastics production, or certain cleaning product manufacturing), your employer may require regular testing to ensure your exposure levels are within safe limits. It may also be used in environmental health studies or when investigating unexplained symptoms potentially linked to chemical exposure.

What do the results mean?

Your test results will show the concentration of 1,4-dioxane in your blood. Lower levels generally indicate minimal exposure, while higher levels may suggest significant exposure. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your work history, duration of exposure, and any symptoms you may have. There is no universally established 'normal' range, as even trace amounts may be of concern depending on the context.

Reference range

Not detected or below limit of quantification; background levels typically < 0.1 mg/LN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No specific fasting required; avoid contamination of sample with 1,4-dioxane-containing products (certain cosmetics, adhesives, cleaners); inform laboratory of occupational exposure history

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is 1,4-Dioxane dangerous at any level?
1,4-Dioxane has been shown to cause cancer in animal studies, and health authorities consider it a probable human carcinogen. The risk depends on the level and duration of exposure. Occupational safety guidelines establish exposure limits to minimize risk. Even small amounts can be concerning, especially with long-term exposure, so it's important to follow workplace safety protocols.
How does 1,4-Dioxane enter the body?
1,4-Dioxane can enter your body through three main routes: breathing contaminated air (inhalation), direct contact with skin, or swallowing contaminated water. Workers in certain industries are at highest risk, but communities near industrial sites or landfills may also be exposed through contaminated groundwater or air.
What are the symptoms of 1,4-Dioxane exposure?
Acute (short-term) exposure to high levels may cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, dizziness, and nausea. Chronic (long-term) exposure may not cause immediate symptoms but may increase the risk of liver and kidney damage. Because symptoms may not appear until after significant damage has occurred, regular monitoring through blood testing is important for at-risk workers.
How can I protect myself if I work with 1,4-Dioxane?
Follow all workplace safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. Ensure proper ventilation in work areas. Wash hands thoroughly after handling chemicals. Participate in all required occupational health monitoring programs and report any spills or exposure incidents immediately to your supervisor.
How long does 1,4-Dioxane stay in your blood?
1,4-Dioxane is relatively rapidly metabolized and eliminated from the body. The half-life (time for half of the substance to be cleared) is approximately 30-60 minutes in the body. However, blood testing can still detect recent exposure. The test is most useful for monitoring ongoing exposure rather than past incidents.
  1. 1
    ATSDR - 1,4-DioxaneSource
  2. 2
    EPA - 1,4-DioxaneSource
  3. 3
    LOINC - 1,4-Dioxane [Mass/volume] in BloodSource

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy