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Ethanol concentration in gastric fluid (24-hour screening)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of alcohol present in your stomach over a 24-hour period, often used to assess recent alcohol exposure or compliance with alcohol restrictions.

Quick summary

["Helps track alcohol intake in specific contexts like sobriety programs or monitoring for alcohol-related conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47107-8
Short code
Ethanol Gast-sCnc
Synonyms
Ethanol Gast-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re part of a program requiring alcohol abstinence (e.g., after surgery, for legal reasons, or in recovery). It helps confirm whether alcohol has been consumed recently or if you’re following guidelines.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a small sample of your stomach contents collected via a procedure called a gastric lavage or nasogastric tube insertion. This is usually done in a medical setting.

How the Test Works

The collected fluid is tested for ethanol (alcohol) using a sensitive method, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or immunoassay, to detect traces of alcohol.

What the Results Mean

Results indicate the presence or absence of alcohol in your stomach fluid. Positive results suggest alcohol was consumed recently, while negative results mean no detectable alcohol was found.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Gastric Ethanol Screening

Frequently asked questions

Will I feel any pain or discomfort during the test?
You may experience mild discomfort or nausea during the procedure, but it’s generally not painful. Your provider can give you details about any sedation or pain relief options if needed.
How soon will I get my results, and what does a positive result mean?
Results are typically available within a few days. A positive result means alcohol was detected in your stomach fluid, which could indicate recent consumption. Follow-up with your provider to discuss next steps.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test to ensure accurate results. If you’re unsure, ask your provider for guidance tailored to your situation.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy