Ethylene glycol concentration (serum/plasma)

What Is Ethylene Glycol?

Ethylene glycol is a clear, sweet-tasting liquid used in antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and some industrial products. Ingesting it can cause severe illness or death within hours. Your body metabolizes it into toxic byproducts that damage organs, especially the kidneys and brain.

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test if you’ve been exposed to ethylene glycol—through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact—or if you’re experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, confusion, or difficulty breathing. It’s also checked in cases of suspected poisoning, especially in children or those with access to antifreeze.

What Are Possible Symptoms?

Symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning can appear within hours and may include: early signs like nausea, vomiting, and a metallic taste in your mouth; later signs like confusion, seizures, coma, or kidney failure. Seek emergency care immediately if you or someone else shows these signs.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure ethylene glycol levels using a specialized method, often a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or immunoassay technique.