Alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E) in Serum or Plasma
This test measures the amount of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant found in your blood. Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
["Vitamin E supports cell health and may help prevent certain types of cell damage."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13970-9
- Short code
- D-Tocopherol SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- D-Tocopherol SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin E deficiency, such as muscle weakness, nerve problems, or skin issues. It may also be checked in people with certain medical conditions like cystic fibrosis, malabsorption disorders, or long-term use of certain medications that affect vitamin E levels.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab to measure the vitamin E concentration in your blood.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of the test. If you are on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your healthcare provider know.
What to Expect During the Test
You will likely feel a brief pinch as the needle is inserted. Most people feel little to no discomfort afterward. If you experience any unusual pain or swelling, contact your healthcare provider.
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.
Vitamin E plays a crucial role in maintaining cell integrity and protecting against oxidative stress. Low levels may indicate underlying health issues such as malabsorption syndromes, certain genetic disorders, or prolonged use of medications that interfere with vitamin absorption. High levels might be seen in individuals with certain genetic conditions or those consuming very high doses of vitamin E supplements.
Short name
Vitamin E Level
Frequently asked questions
What does a low vitamin E level mean?
How is vitamin E typically measured in the blood?
Can vitamin E levels change with diet?
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