Perchlorate Mass Concentration in Whole Blood
This test measures the amount of perchlorate, a chemical found in some medications and environmental sources, in your blood. It helps assess exposure that may interfere with thyroid function.
["Perchlorate levels can indicate potential thyroid function disruptions from environmental or medication exposure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17697-4
- Short code
- Tetrachloroethane Bld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Tetrachloroethane Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve been exposed to perchlorate through medications (like amiodarone), contaminated water, or other sources. It’s also used in certain screening programs for thyroid-related concerns.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a small blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal levels may suggest recent exposure, but they don’t always indicate immediate harm. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and other tests.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated levels can stem from medications, dietary supplements, or environmental contamination. Low levels are less common but may occur if exposure is minimal or if the body naturally processes perchlorate quickly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Perchlorate Blood Test
Frequently asked questions
Perchlorate can block iodine uptake by the thyroid, potentially affecting thyroid hormone production. While acute exposure is rare, chronic exposure may raise concerns for thyroid dysfunction, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant individuals or those with pre-existing thyroid issues.
A high level may indicate recent exposure, but it doesn’t always mean harm. Your provider will check thyroid function tests (like TSH) to see if exposure has impacted your thyroid. If levels are consistently elevated, further investigation into sources (like medications or water) may be needed.
Yes! Avoid medications containing perchlorate (like amiodarone) unless prescribed. Limit exposure to contaminated water sources, and check food labels for perchlorate additives (rare but possible in some processed foods).
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy