Retinol and Alpha-Tocopherol Panel, Serum/Plasma
Measures retinol (vitamin A) and alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) in blood to help assess vitamin status and possible deficiencies or excess.
["This blood test helps evaluate vitamin A and vitamin E levels and identify possible deficiency, excess, or malabsorption."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96600-2
- Short code
- Retinol + A-Tocopherol Pnl SerPl
- Synonyms
- Retinol + A-Tocopherol Pnl SerPl
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 38
- Ref high
- 98
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 this test?
This panel measures retinol and alpha-tocopherol in serum or plasma. Retinol reflects vitamin A status, while alpha-tocopherol is the main form of vitamin E measured in blood.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test when there is concern about vitamin A or vitamin E deficiency or excess. It may also be used when symptoms suggest poor nutrient absorption, certain liver conditions, or an unusual response to supplements.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the two vitamin levels are measured using laboratory testing methods. The specimen may be serum or plasma depending on the laboratory's procedure.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's preparation instructions. Because vitamins are affected by diet and supplements, tell the laboratory about multivitamins, vitamin A or E supplements, and other relevant medicines. Do not stop prescribed supplements unless your clinician advises you to do so.
Reference range
NCBI: Vitamin A 38-98 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low retinol or alpha-tocopherol may be associated with inadequate dietary intake, impaired absorption, malabsorption disorders, or increased vitamin requirements. High levels can occur with excessive supplementation and may require assessment for possible harm. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, diet, supplement use, medical history, and other laboratory findings because vitamin levels can be influenced by illness and recent intake.
Short name
Vitamin A and Vitamin E Panel
Frequently asked questions
What does this panel test for?
Do I need to stop taking vitamins before the test?
Can a low vitamin level always mean I am not getting enough from my diet?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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