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Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin (CDT) with Rapid Immunoassay Method

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

This test measures a form of transferrin protein that may indicate long-term alcohol use. It helps identify potential liver damage or alcohol-related health risks.

Quick summary

["CDT helps detect alcohol misuse by tracking changes in protein structure over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105038-4
Short code
OXA-40/58 carba Islt/Spm Ql IA.rapid
Synonyms
OXA-40/58 carba Islt/Spm Ql IA.rapid
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia-rapid
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

What Is Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin (CDT)?

Transferrin is a protein in your blood that carries iron. Normally, it has sugar molecules attached. When alcohol is consumed over time, some transferrin molecules lose these sugars, creating CDT. This test detects these missing sugar molecules to assess alcohol exposure.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may recommend CDT if you have risk factors for alcohol use, such as unexplained liver issues, frequent heavy drinking, or symptoms like fatigue, memory problems, or liver pain. It can also be used alongside other tests to monitor liver health.

How Is the CDT Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The sample is then analyzed using a rapid immunoassay method to detect CDT levels. Results are typically available within hours.

What Do CDT Results Mean?

Higher CDT levels may suggest long-term alcohol consumption, but they are not definitive proof. Other factors, like liver disease or certain medications, can also affect results. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: CDT in Alcohol Screening and Liver Health

Short name

CDT Screening Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to see changes in CDT levels after drinking?
CDT levels can begin to rise within weeks of prolonged alcohol use and may take months to normalize if you stop drinking. This test is useful for detecting long-term exposure rather than short-term binge drinking.
Can CDT levels be affected by other conditions besides alcohol?
Yes, conditions like liver disease, certain medications, or nutritional deficiencies (such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies) can influence CDT levels. Your doctor will consider these factors when evaluating your results.
Is CDT a replacement for other alcohol screening tests?
No, CDT is often used alongside other tests like urine toxicology screens or liver function tests. It provides additional context but is not a standalone test for alcohol use diagnosis.
  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