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Ethylsulfate in urine (mass concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of ethylsulfate, a breakdown product of ethyl alcohol (ethanol), in your urine. It helps assess recent alcohol consumption.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how much alcohol you’ve consumed recently."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58424-3
Short code
Ethyl sulfate Ur Ql Scn
Synonyms
Ethyl sulfate Ur Ql Scn
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
screen
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 order this test if you have concerns about alcohol use, are suspected of alcohol poisoning, or are undergoing treatment for alcohol-related conditions. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for substance abuse or metabolic disorders.

What Does the Result Mean?

Ethylsulfate levels in urine can rise within hours after alcohol ingestion and may stay elevated for several days. High levels may indicate recent heavy drinking, while lower levels suggest minimal or no recent alcohol use. However, results alone should not be used to diagnose alcoholism or dependence without clinical correlation.

How Is the Test Performed?

You will provide a urine sample in a sterile container. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using a specialized method to measure ethylsulfate concentration.

What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated ethylsulfate levels are most commonly linked to recent alcohol consumption. Other factors, such as certain medications or metabolic conditions, could also influence results, but alcohol use is the primary cause.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used as a marker for recent ethanol exposure and is not a definitive diagnostic tool for alcoholism or liver disease. It should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic findings for a complete assessment.

Short name

Ethylsulfate Urine

Frequently asked questions

Why might my ethylsulfate urine test be ordered if I don’t drink alcohol?
Your provider may order this test for other reasons, such as investigating metabolic conditions, evaluating substance use in a broader context, or checking for exposure to alcohol in specific clinical scenarios (e.g., workplace safety).
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will contact you with the results once they are ready.
Can diet or other substances affect ethylsulfate levels?
While alcohol is the primary source of ethylsulfate, certain medications (e.g., some antibiotics or diuretics) or metabolic conditions may indirectly influence results. However, dietary factors alone are unlikely to significantly alter ethylsulfate levels.
  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