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Serum or Plasma Concentration of Butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) via Immunoassay

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

This test measures the amount of butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), a chemical used as an antioxidant in some foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, in your blood.

Quick summary

["BHT levels help assess exposure to this chemical, which may be relevant in certain occupational or environmental settings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78838-0
Short code
JWH-073 4OH-butyl CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Synonyms
JWH-073 4OH-butyl CtO Ur Cfm-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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

What Is Butylhydroxytoluene (BHT)?

BHT is an organic compound primarily used as a preservative and antioxidant in food, cosmetics, and some medications. It helps prevent spoilage by slowing down oxidation processes. In small amounts, it’s generally considered safe for food use, but higher exposures may raise concerns depending on context.

Why Might You Need This Test?

This test may be ordered if you’ve been exposed to BHT in workplaces (e.g., chemical manufacturing), through environmental contamination, or if you’re using products containing BHT. It can also be part of broader chemical exposure evaluations.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, then analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect BHT. Results are reported as a mass concentration in the blood.

What Do Results Mean?

Higher-than-normal levels may indicate recent exposure to BHT, but interpretation depends on clinical context (e.g., occupation, product use). No standard reference ranges exist for this specific chemical in general blood tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

BHT Level

Frequently asked questions

Why was this test ordered?
Your healthcare provider may have ordered this test to assess potential exposure to BHT, especially if you work in industries handling antioxidants, use BHT-containing products frequently, or have symptoms linked to chemical exposure (e.g., skin irritation, nausea). Elevated levels could prompt further evaluation of exposure sources.
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
There are no universally accepted reference ranges for BHT in blood tests. Results are compared to your baseline or clinical context rather than a fixed range.
Can BHT levels change over time?
Yes, BHT levels can fluctuate based on recent exposure. If you’ve stopped using products containing BHT, levels may decline within days to weeks depending on metabolism and elimination.
  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