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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, in your blood. It may be checked if you have been exposed to BHT or if your healthcare provider suspects its presence in your system.

Quick summary

["BHT is sometimes found in certain foods, cosmetics, or environmental samples; this test helps assess exposure levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73492-1
Short code
Butalb+ASA+Caff ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
Synonyms
Butalb+ASA+Caff ind plt IgM 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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve been exposed to BHT through food, personal care products, or environmental sources. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for chemical sensitivity, occupational hazards, or suspected poisoning.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using HPLC to detect BHT levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a concentration of BHT in your blood (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). High levels may indicate recent exposure, while normal levels suggest no significant presence of BHT in your system. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

BHT Level (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal reference ranges for this test?
There are no widely established standard reference ranges for BHT in blood because it’s not commonly tested. Your doctor will use the results to assess whether exposure is concerning based on your symptoms, exposure history, and clinical context.
Could elevated BHT levels cause health problems?
Exposure to BHT at typical environmental or food levels is generally considered safe. However, very high or prolonged exposure—especially in occupational settings—could theoretically raise concerns, though long-term effects are not well-documented. Your doctor will evaluate risks based on your situation.
Why might my doctor order this test if BHT is rarely tested?
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect recent exposure (e.g., from contaminated products) or if you have symptoms like skin irritation, nausea, or unusual fatigue that could relate to chemical exposure. It’s also sometimes used in research or specialized investigations.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 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