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Serum or plasma concentration of Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)

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

This test measures the amount of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, in your blood. Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Quick summary

["Vitamin E supports cell health and may help reduce oxidative stress in the body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30136-6
Short code
EBV VCA IgG sp2 Ser Ql
Synonyms
EBV VCA IgG sp2 Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for vitamin E deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, malabsorption issues, or long-term use of certain medications. It may also be used to monitor vitamin E levels in people with conditions like cystic fibrosis, liver disease, or premature birth.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually not painful.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are compared to standard reference ranges for vitamin E. Low levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels could suggest certain medical conditions or overconsumption of supplements. Your provider will discuss the results with you in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Vitamin E deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, nerve damage, or an increased risk of certain health issues, such as heart disease or vision problems. Regular monitoring is important for people with conditions that affect fat absorption or those taking medications that interfere with vitamin E metabolism.

Short name

Vitamin E Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes vitamin E deficiency?
Vitamin E deficiency can result from conditions that impair fat absorption (like cystic fibrosis or Crohn’s disease), long-term use of certain medications (such as anticonvulsants), premature birth in infants, or malabsorption syndromes. Rarely, it may also occur due to genetic disorders or excessive vitamin E supplementation (though this is uncommon).
What symptoms might I experience if my vitamin E levels are low?
Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency may include muscle weakness, coordination problems, vision changes, or nerve-related issues like tingling or numbness. Some people may not notice symptoms until the deficiency is severe. If you experience these or other concerning symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How is vitamin E deficiency treated?
Treatment typically involves increasing dietary intake of vitamin E-rich foods (like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens) or taking vitamin E supplements under medical supervision. Your provider may recommend specific dosages based on your test results and overall health.
  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