Serum or plasma concentration of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)
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 immune function; low levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies or absorption issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31823-8
- Short code
- EIV Ag Nose Ql
- Synonyms
- EIV Ag Nose Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order a vitamin E test to check for deficiencies, especially if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, nerve problems, or frequent infections. It can also help diagnose conditions like malabsorption disorders (e.g., celiac disease) or liver problems. Rarely, it may be used to monitor vitamin E supplementation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your lab uses a specific method. Avoid taking vitamin E supplements 24 hours prior to testing, as they can affect results.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are compared to a reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low levels may suggest poor absorption, liver disease, or certain genetic conditions. High levels could indicate over-supplementation or rare metabolic disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Vitamin E deficiency is rare in healthy individuals but can occur in people with chronic liver disease, cystic fibrosis, or conditions that impair fat absorption. It plays a role in preventing oxidative damage to cells and may support immune function. Monitoring levels helps identify underlying issues that could affect overall health.
Short name
Vitamin E level
Frequently asked questions
What causes vitamin E deficiency?
What symptoms might indicate low vitamin E?
Can vitamin E supplements affect test results?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy