12dcawatmcnc
This test measures the level of 1,2-dichloroethane, a toxic industrial chemical, in your blood to assess exposure or poisoning.
{"1,2-Dichloroethane is a toxic industrial solvent used in manufacturing","This test checks for exposure or poisoning from this chemical","Sample is collected through a blood draw","Results help doctors diagnose and treat chemical exposure","Common in workplace safety monitoring"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38291-1
- Short code
- DCE
- Synonyms
- 1,2DCA Wat-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile glass tube with Teflon-lined cap or specialized volatile organic compound (VOC) collection tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 0.5
- Critical range
- — – 10 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Headspace Gas Chromatography
- CPT
- 82491
- SNOMED
- 118841007
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL serum
- Stability
- Store at 2-8°C if analysis within 7 days; otherwise freeze at -20°C or below. Protect from light.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 1,2-dichloroethane test measures the amount of this toxic chemical in your blood. 1,2-Dichloroethane (also known as ethylene dichloride) is a synthetic chemical primarily used in making plastics and as an industrial solvent. It can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if: you work in an industry using this chemical and have symptoms of exposure; you have been accidentally or intentionally exposed to this substance; your doctor suspects chemical poisoning; or as part of routine occupational health monitoring for workers in high-risk industries.
How is the test done?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and similar to other routine blood tests.
What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as detected or not detected, or as a specific concentration. The presence of 1,2-dichloroethane in your blood indicates exposure. Your doctor will interpret results based on your symptoms, exposure history, and clinical context. There is no established normal reference range as any detectable level may indicate exposure.
Reference range
Not detected or < 0.5 μg/L (laboratory-specific reference limit)N/A
No specific preparation required. Avoid contamination of specimen with environmental sources. Inform laboratory of potential occupational exposure history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Is this test dangerous?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if my test is positive?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy