Skip to content

Ethylsulfate (Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of ethylsulfate, a breakdown product of ethanol, in your blood. It helps assess recent alcohol exposure or metabolism.

Quick summary

["Ethylsulfate levels can indicate how your body processes alcohol and may be used alongside other tests for monitoring alcohol use."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94398-5
Short code
Ethyl sulfate Mec Cfm-mCnt
Synonyms
Ethyl sulfate Mec Cfm-mCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 recently, if you have concerns about alcohol metabolism, or as part of a broader evaluation for substance use or liver function. It can also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to study alcohol metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your provider’s instructions. Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before testing if advised.

What the Test Results Mean

Ethylsulfate levels reflect how your body processes ethanol (alcohol). Higher levels may suggest recent alcohol intake or impaired metabolism. However, results alone don’t diagnose alcohol use disorder; they’re often used alongside other tests or clinical judgment.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated ethylsulfate levels can occur after drinking alcohol, in people with certain liver conditions, or in individuals with genetic variations affecting alcohol metabolism. Low levels may indicate normal metabolism or recent abstinence.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Ethylsulfate Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they have the results.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
If your provider hasn’t specified otherwise, avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results. Follow their guidance closely.
Is this test painful?
The test involves a small needle inserted into your arm for blood drawing, which may cause a brief pinch. Most people experience minimal discomfort. If you’re anxious about needles, let your provider know so they can offer alternatives.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy