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Ethylsulfate concentration in urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the amount of ethylsulfate, a metabolite of ethanol (alcohol), in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess long-term alcohol exposure.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how much alcohol you’ve consumed over time by measuring its breakdown product in urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60676-4
Short code
Ethyl sulfate Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Ethyl sulfate Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have concerns about heavy alcohol use, are recovering from alcohol dependence, or need to monitor long-term exposure for research or occupational safety purposes.

What Does the Test Involve?

You’ll collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

How Is the Test Performed?

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine in a sterile container. If you’re on certain medications or have kidney issues, let your doctor know to avoid false results.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated ethylsulfate levels may suggest chronic alcohol consumption, while very low levels could indicate recent abstinence or medical conditions affecting metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Ethylsulfate is a marker for long-term alcohol exposure. High levels may indicate heavy drinking, while low levels could reflect sobriety or metabolic differences. This test is useful in monitoring recovery, occupational safety, or research studies but isn’t a direct measure of alcohol intake.

Short name

24-Hour Ethylsulfate Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test to assess alcohol use patterns, monitor sobriety in recovery programs, or evaluate exposure in workplace or research settings where alcohol use is a concern.
What does a high or low result mean?
A high result suggests prolonged alcohol exposure, while a low result may mean you’ve been abstinent or have metabolic factors affecting alcohol breakdown. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your health and history.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. However, inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or health conditions that could affect results.
  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