Ethylene Glycol, Urine, Substance Concentration
This test measures the amount of ethylene glycol, a toxic alcohol found in antifreeze and other products, in a urine sample. It helps identify ethylene glycol poisoning and monitor treatment.
["A urine ethylene glycol test detects and helps manage poisoning from antifreeze or similar products."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22678-7
- Short code
- Ethylene Glycol Ur-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Ethylene Glycol Ur-sCnc
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Being Measured
Ethylene glycol is a colorless, sweet-tasting chemical used in antifreeze, deicers, and some industrial products. When swallowed, it is broken down by the body into harmful substances that can damage the kidneys, nerves, and other organs. This test measures how much ethylene glycol is present in your urine so doctors can assess exposure.
Why Your Doctor Ordered This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test if there is concern that you or someone else swallowed ethylene glycol, such as after a suspected poisoning or accidental ingestion. It can also be used during treatment to see whether the poison is being cleared from the body. Symptoms like confusion, dizziness, nausea, or unusual behavior can prompt testing.
How the Sample Is Collected
The test is done on a urine sample, which you usually provide in a sterile cup at a clinic or lab. No special preparation is normally needed unless your healthcare team gives specific instructions. Collect the sample as directed and give it promptly to the lab.
What the Results Mean
Results show the level of ethylene glycol detected in your urine. A measurable or high level can suggest recent exposure or poisoning. Normal or undetectable results generally mean little or no ethylene glycol is present, but timing matters because the chemical leaves the body over time. Your provider will interpret results alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Ethylene glycol poisoning is a medical emergency that can cause serious kidney and organ damage if untreated. Urine testing helps confirm exposure and guide treatment such as medications or dialysis. Results must be interpreted quickly and in context, since early treatment greatly improves outcomes.
Short name
Ethylene Glycol (Urine)
Frequently asked questions
Does this test replace a blood ethylene glycol test?
Can I take this test at home?
What should I do if I think someone swallowed antifreeze?
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