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Butylbenzylphthalate in Urine (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of butylbenzylphthalate, a chemical found in certain plastics and pesticides, in your urine. It helps detect exposure to this substance.

Quick summary

["This test may be used to check for environmental or occupational exposure to butylbenzylphthalate."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
73921-9
Short code
JWH-073 3OH-butyl Bld Ql
Synonyms
JWH-073 3OH-butyl Bld Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have been exposed to chemicals commonly found in plastics, pesticides, or industrial settings. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for suspected chemical toxicity or environmental health concerns.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required. You may be asked to collect a urine sample in a sterile container, often provided by the lab. Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider or lab technician.

What the Test Results Mean

Higher levels of butylbenzylphthalate in urine may indicate recent exposure to this chemical. However, results alone do not diagnose a specific condition. They are often used alongside other tests or clinical findings to guide further evaluation.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used in occupational health settings to monitor workers exposed to phthalates, a group of chemicals that include butylbenzylphthalate. It may also be part of general environmental health screenings or investigations into suspected chemical poisoning.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Butylbenzylphthalate Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a high level of butylbenzylphthalate in urine mean?
Elevated levels may suggest recent exposure to products containing butylbenzylphthalate, such as plastics, cosmetics, or pesticides. However, it does not definitively indicate harm unless combined with clinical symptoms or other diagnostic findings. Healthcare providers will interpret results in the context of your overall health and exposure history.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your exposure risk and healthcare provider’s recommendations. If you work in an industry with known phthalate exposure, your provider may schedule follow-up tests regularly. Otherwise, it may only be done if symptoms or concerns arise.
Can diet or lifestyle affect this test?
Dietary factors or lifestyle habits generally do not significantly alter urine phthalate levels unless you have consumed unusually high amounts of phthalate-containing products. Avoiding known sources of exposure before testing can help ensure accurate 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