Ethanol concentration in serum (quantitative)
This test measures the amount of alcohol (ethanol) present in your blood serum. It helps doctors assess recent alcohol consumption or detect alcohol poisoning.
["This test checks for alcohol in your blood, useful for monitoring intoxication or identifying patterns of drinking."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14336-2
- Short code
- Ethanol SerPl GC-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Ethanol SerPl GC-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- gc
- 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’ve been exposed to alcohol in high amounts, if you’re suspected of alcohol poisoning, or if you’re experiencing symptoms like confusion, slow breathing, or vomiting that could be linked to alcohol overdose. It can also be used in legal cases, workplace safety assessments, or to evaluate alcohol-related health risks.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic evaluation, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick and usually painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L), depending on the lab’s standard. High levels may indicate recent alcohol ingestion, while very low levels could suggest recent abstinence or medical conditions affecting metabolism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated ethanol levels can signal acute alcohol intoxication, which requires immediate medical attention if symptoms like loss of consciousness, seizures, or respiratory distress are present. Chronic or high-level exposure may raise concerns about alcohol use disorder or organ damage. Doctors use these results to guide treatment, such as detoxification or counseling programs.
Short name
Ethanol Level (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
Does this test detect long-term alcohol use?
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