Serum/plasma concentration of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a chemical preservative sometimes found in certain foods, cosmetics, or medications, in your blood.

Quick summary

["BHT is rarely tested in routine medical care but may be checked if exposure is suspected."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 73493-9
Short code: Butalb+ASA+Caff ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms: Butalb+ASA+Caff ind plt IgG SerPl Ql FC
Category: hematology
Sample: serum
Container: Red-top tube (SST)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: flow-cytometry
CPT: 82784
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 Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)?

BHT is an organic compound used primarily as an antioxidant and preservative in food, cosmetics, and some pharmaceutical products. It helps prevent spoilage by slowing down oxidation processes. While it’s generally considered safe in small amounts, high levels in the blood could indicate recent or prolonged exposure.

Why Might You Need This Test?

This test may be ordered if you’ve been exposed to BHT through diet, personal care products, or medications, or if symptoms like skin irritation, nausea, or unusual fatigue are reported after exposure.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a method that separates and identifies chemicals in the blood.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

Interpretation depends on context—such as exposure history, symptoms, or suspected sources. Elevated levels may suggest recent or excessive exposure, but results alone don’t confirm cause without clinical correlation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: BHT Exposure and Health

Short name

BHT Level (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What are the possible side effects of high BHT levels?

BHT is generally low-risk at typical exposure levels, but very high concentrations in the blood could theoretically cause irritation or allergic reactions. Chronic exposure at elevated levels isn’t well-studied in humans, so results should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Could this test help diagnose a specific condition?

No, this test isn’t used to diagnose medical conditions. It’s primarily for assessing exposure to BHT, often in cases of suspected occupational, dietary, or product-related exposure.

How long does it take to get results?

Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss findings and next steps.

Sources

1
MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
2
Lab Tests OnlineSource
3
Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy