14dcbserplmcnc
This test measures the level of 1,4-dichlorobenzene, a chemical compound found in some household products and industrial settings, in your blood.
{"Measures the amount of 1,4-dichlorobenzene chemical in blood serum or plasma","Used to check for exposure to this chemical from mothballs, deodorizers, or workplace settings","Sample is collected through a simple blood draw","Results help doctors assess potential toxicity or occupational exposure","No special fasting preparation is typically required"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13006-2
- Short code
- 14DCB
- Synonyms
- 1,4DCB SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS)
- CPT
- 84600
- SNOMED
- 413559009
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C) for longer storage up to 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 1,4-Dichlorobenzene test measures the amount of this chemical compound in your blood serum or plasma. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene (also called p-dichlorobenzene) is a white solid chemical with a strong odor. It has been used in mothballs, toilet bowl deodorizers, and some industrial processes. Today, its use has declined due to health concerns, but exposure can still occur in certain occupational settings or from older products.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if there is concern about your exposure to 1,4-dichlorobenzene. This might happen if you work in an industry where this chemical is used, such as pesticide manufacturing or certain chemical production facilities. It may also be ordered if you have symptoms that could be related to chemical exposure, such as unusual fatigue, headache, nausea, or liver problems.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. This blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated, though you may experience slight discomfort or bruising at the puncture site.
What do the results mean?
Your test results will show whether 1,4-dichlorobenzene was detected in your blood and at what level. If elevated levels are found, it indicates recent exposure to this chemical. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms, work history, and other test results to determine if any treatment or follow-up is needed.
Reference range
Not detected or < 10 ng/mL (background/environmental exposure level); Occupational exposure may present with elevated levelsN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid exposure to products containing 1,4-dichlorobenzene (mothballs, deodorizing blocks, certain pesticides) for 24-48 hours prior to collection if possible. Inform laboratory of occupational exposure history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Is this test dangerous?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my results show elevated levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2CDC - Chemical ExposuresSource
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