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Red Blood Cell Vitamin E (Serum) Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of vitamin E found in your red blood cells. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Quick summary

["Vitamin E in red blood cells helps maintain overall health and may indicate how well your body absorbs and stores this nutrient."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
68435-7
Short code
RBC # Vitf Auto
Synonyms
RBC # Vitf Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, nerve problems, or skin issues that could be linked to low vitamin E levels. It may also be used to monitor vitamin E status in certain medical conditions or after treatments that affect nutrient absorption.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate red blood cells, and vitamin E levels are measured using a specialized laboratory technique.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your vitamin E levels are within a healthy range. Low levels might suggest vitamin E deficiency or issues with absorption, while higher levels could indicate overconsumption or certain medical conditions.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vitamin E in RBCs

Frequently asked questions

Could I have vitamin E deficiency without this test?
Sometimes. Symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain, or vision problems may appear, but blood tests like this one help confirm vitamin E levels and rule out other causes.
Does diet affect vitamin E test results?
Yes. High dietary intake of vitamin E (from foods like nuts, seeds, or supplements) may temporarily raise levels. Your provider may advise avoiding large vitamin E doses before testing.
Is this test the same as measuring vitamin E in serum?
No. This test specifically measures vitamin E inside red blood cells, while serum vitamin E tests measure the free vitamin E in your blood plasma.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy