Skip to content

Serum or plasma 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 your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Quick summary

["Vitamin E supports cell health and immune function; low levels may indicate nutritional deficiencies or health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30856-9
Short code
MRA Head ves
Synonyms
MRA Head 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 if you have enough vitamin E in your body. Possible reasons include suspected deficiencies (especially in people with certain digestive disorders), monitoring long-term vitamin E therapy, or evaluating symptoms like muscle weakness, nerve problems, or frequent infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw, but always follow your lab’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking to discuss with your provider.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but most people tolerate it well. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Possible Results?

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low levels may signal vitamin E deficiency, while very high levels could indicate over-supplementation or certain medical conditions. Your provider will interpret 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 deficiency?
Vitamin E deficiency can result from poor dietary intake (e.g., very low-fat diets), digestive disorders that impair absorption (like Crohn’s disease or pancreatic insufficiency), or conditions that reduce vitamin E storage (e.g., certain genetic disorders). Rarely, long-term use of certain medications or bile duct blockages can also contribute.
What symptoms might I experience if my vitamin E levels are low?
Symptoms of vitamin E deficiency may include muscle weakness, coordination problems (like unsteady gait), nerve pain, or frequent infections. Some people experience vision changes or skin issues. However, many people with low levels may not notice symptoms until deficiency is severe.
How is vitamin E deficiency treated?
Treatment typically involves dietary changes to increase vitamin E-rich foods (e.g., nuts, seeds, leafy greens) or vitamin E supplements, if approved by your provider. Severe deficiencies may require higher doses under medical supervision. Your provider will adjust treatment based on your test results and overall health.
  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