Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) concentration in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, in your blood. Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
["Vitamin E supports cell health and immune function; low levels may indicate deficiencies or underlying health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74901-0
- Short code
- Gamma tocopherol EntSub RBC
- Synonyms
- Gamma tocopherol EntSub RBC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin E deficiency, such as nerve problems, muscle weakness, or skin issues. It may also be used to monitor vitamin E levels in people with certain medical conditions, like cystic fibrosis or malabsorption disorders, or those taking supplements.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking to your appointment.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration of vitamin E in the blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, low levels may suggest deficiency, while very high levels could indicate over-supplementation or certain medical conditions.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low vitamin E levels can lead to oxidative stress, affecting nerve function, vision, and immune response. Deficiency is rare but may occur in people with poor absorption (e.g., celiac disease, pancreatitis) or chronic liver disease. High levels may raise concerns if they’re due to excessive supplementation or rare genetic disorders.
Short name
Vitamin E Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I take vitamin E supplements before the test?
What symptoms might indicate vitamin E deficiency?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy