Total Serum Alpha-Tocopherol Concentration (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the total amount of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) in your blood serum. Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
["Vitamin E supports immune function and may help reduce oxidative stress in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74544-8
- Short code
- Tocopherols EntSub RBC
- Synonyms
- Tocopherols EntSub RBC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of vitamin E deficiency, such as muscle weakness, nerve problems, or skin issues. It may also be checked in people with certain genetic disorders, malabsorption problems (like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease), or those taking certain medications that can lower vitamin E levels.
What Does the Test Measure?
The test measures the total concentration of alpha-tocopherol, the most biologically active form of vitamin E in your blood. This helps assess whether your body has enough vitamin E to function properly.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion of the blood is then analyzed using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to measure vitamin E levels.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are compared to reference ranges for healthy individuals, but exact values can vary by lab. Low levels may indicate deficiency, while high levels might suggest overconsumption or certain genetic conditions.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Vitamin E plays a critical role in protecting cell membranes from oxidative damage. Low levels can lead to neurological issues, weakened immunity, or muscle problems. High levels may not always indicate a problem unless associated with symptoms like nausea or fatigue.
Short name
Total Vitamin E (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What causes low vitamin E levels?
What are the symptoms of vitamin E deficiency?
How can I maintain healthy vitamin E levels?
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