Cannabinoid Serum/Plasma Mass Concentration (Screening)
This test measures the amount of cannabinoids, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidiol), in your blood or serum/plasma. It helps determine recent cannabis use.
["Detects recent cannabis exposure for legal, medical, or workplace purposes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16542-3
- Short code
- CANNS
- Synonyms
- Cannabinoids SerPl Cfm-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (no anticoagulant) or serum separator tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- CPT
- 80349
- SNOMED
- 395142008
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of whole blood; minimum 1 mL serum required
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Cannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis plants. The test specifically looks for the presence of these compounds in your bloodstream, which can indicate recent ingestion or exposure. This includes both THC (the psychoactive component) and other cannabinoids like CBD.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about recent cannabis use, such as for legal reasons (e.g., employment screening), medical evaluation, or monitoring treatment effects.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a specialized method to detect cannabinoid compounds.
What Are the Results Typically Used For?
Results help determine if cannabinoids are present in your system, which can inform decisions about legal status, medical conditions, or substance use assessment.
Reference range
Negative: <5 ng/mL. Cutoff concentrations vary by laboratory and regulatory requirements. Positive results indicate recent cannabinoid use.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be informed that results may be used for medical, legal, or employment purposes. Chain of custody documentation recommended for forensic testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Cannabinoids in the bloodstream can indicate recent cannabis use and may affect judgment, coordination, and other cognitive functions. Chronic use can also lead to long-term health concerns, though these are not directly assessed by this single test.
Short name
Cannabinoid Screening (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy