Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A blood test that measures 1,2-dichloroethane levels to check for exposure to this potentially harmful chemical.
{"This test measures 1,2-dichloroethane in your blood serum","It helps doctors determine if you've been exposed to this toxic chemical","Exposure can occur through contaminated air, water, or workplace contact","Results are compared to safe exposure limits established by health authorities","Follow up with your healthcare provider to understand your specific results"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38695-3
- Short code
- DCE
- Synonyms
- 1,2DCA Air-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red top serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- — – 10 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Headspace Gas Chromatography
- CPT
- 84600 (Volatile chemicals in blood)
- SNOMED
- 432561000124101
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL venous blood
- Stability
- Store at 2-8°C if analysis within 7 days; otherwise freeze at -20°C or below. Protect from light.
- Hemolysis max
- 50
- Lipemia max
- 30
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
A complete blood count, or CBC, is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It gives your doctor a broad picture of your overall health and helps detect many conditions.
The 1,2-dichloroethane blood test measures the amount of 1,2-dichloroethane (also known as ethylene dichloride) in your blood serum. This is a chemical compound that has been used in industrial processes and can be harmful if people are exposed to it.
You may need this test as part of a routine checkup, to look into symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, or unusual bruising, to monitor a condition like anemia or an infection, or to see how treatments such as chemotherapy are affecting your blood cells.
Your doctor may order this test if you have been potentially exposed to 1,2-dichloroethane through your work (such as in chemical manufacturing or solvent use), through contaminated water or air, or if you are experiencing symptoms that might be related to chemical exposure. Common symptoms of exposure may include headache, dizziness, nausea, or respiratory irritation.
The test is done with a simple blood draw. A healthcare provider will clean a spot on your arm, usually the inside of your elbow, place a band around your upper arm, and use a small needle to collect a sample into a tube. It takes only a few minutes and may cause a brief pinch.
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test measures the concentration of 1,2-dichloroethane in your blood serum.
Your results show whether your blood cell counts fall within normal ranges. Values that are too high or too low can suggest conditions such as anemia, infection, inflammation, clotting problems, or blood disorders. Abnormal results do not always mean a serious illness, so your doctor will interpret them along with your symptoms and medical history.
Your test results will show whether 1,2-dichloroethane was detected in your blood and at what level. Your doctor will interpret these results based on your exposure history, symptoms, and overall health. Detectable levels may indicate recent exposure, but your doctor will determine if the level is concerning and what follow-up may be needed.
Reference range
No established reference range for serum; background levels typically undetectable in non-occupationally exposed individuals. Occupational exposure assessment based on biological limit values.N/A
No specific fasting required. Avoid exposure to solvents, fuels, and industrial chemicals for 24 hours prior to collection if possible. Inform laboratory of occupational exposure history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
1,2-Dichloroethane is a volatile organic compound that can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. This test is used to assess occupational or environmental exposure to this chemical. High levels of exposure can affect the central nervous system, liver, and kidneys. The test helps healthcare providers identify exposure that may require intervention or removal from the exposure source. It is particularly important for workers in industries where 1,2-dichloroethane is or was used, such as chemical manufacturing, degreasing operations, or fuel production.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a routine test?
How long does 1,2-dichloroethane stay in your blood?
What happens if my test shows elevated levels?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Can my family members be tested?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy