Skip to content

Serum or plasma mass concentration of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)

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

This test measures the amount of vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant found in your blood. Vitamin E helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Quick summary

["Vitamin E supports immune function and may help reduce oxidative stress in the body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36794-6
Short code
MRA Extr ves
Synonyms
MRA Extr ves
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr-angio
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for vitamin E deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, malabsorption issues, or long-term use of certain medications. It may also be used to monitor vitamin E levels in people with conditions like cystic fibrosis or short bowel syndrome. Rarely, it could be part of a broader evaluation for neurological symptoms that might be linked to antioxidant deficiencies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. If you’re having blood drawn, you may want to drink plenty of fluids the day of the test to help reduce discomfort. If you’re having a urine sample collected for a 24-hour vitamin E test, your provider will give specific instructions on when and how to collect it.

What Happens During the Test?

For blood tests, a small needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm. A small amount of blood will be drawn and sent to a lab for analysis. For urine tests, you’ll collect your urine over a 24-hour period in a container provided by your healthcare team.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Low levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels could be due to certain medications or genetic factors. Your healthcare provider will discuss your results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vitamin E Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes vitamin E levels to be low?
Vitamin E deficiency can result from conditions that impair fat absorption (like cystic fibrosis or celiac disease), certain medications (such as cholestyramine), malabsorption syndromes, or long-term intravenous nutrition without adequate vitamin E supplementation. Rarely, genetic disorders may also affect vitamin E metabolism.
What symptoms might indicate a vitamin E deficiency?
Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency may include muscle weakness, poor coordination, vision problems, or neurological issues such as nerve damage. However, many people with mild deficiencies may not experience symptoms until the deficiency is more severe. If you notice any unusual symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
How is vitamin E deficiency treated?
Treatment typically involves taking vitamin E supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The dose depends on the severity of the deficiency and your overall health. Lifestyle changes, such as a diet rich in vitamin E sources (like nuts, seeds, and leafy greens), may also be recommended.
  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