Alpha-Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
Measures the amount of vitamin E, also called alpha-tocopherol, in serum or plasma. This test can help assess vitamin E status when deficiency or excess is suspected.
["This blood test measures vitamin E levels to help evaluate whether you may have too little or too much vitamin E."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14590-4
- Short code
- A-Tocopherol Vit E SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- A-Tocopherol Vit E SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 5
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Vitamin E, also known as alpha-tocopherol, is a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage. This test measures its concentration in a blood sample collected as serum or plasma.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test if you have a condition that can affect the absorption or storage of fats, such as certain digestive or liver disorders. It may also be used to monitor vitamin E supplementation or investigate symptoms that could relate to deficiency or excess.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein and placed in a tube that separates serum or plasma. The laboratory uses an analytical method to measure the vitamin E concentration in the sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
You may be asked to fast before the blood draw, depending on the laboratory and your clinician's instructions. Tell your clinician about vitamin E supplements and other products containing vitamin E, because they can affect the result.
Reference range
NCBI: Vitamin E 5-20 µg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A low vitamin E level can occur with poor fat absorption, certain malabsorption disorders, or some inherited conditions. A high level may result from taking vitamin E supplements or other vitamin E-containing products. Results should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other laboratory tests.
Short name
Vitamin E (Alpha-Tocopherol)
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a general nutrition panel?
Do I need to stop taking vitamin E supplements before the test?
Does the test require fasting?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy