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14dioxaneserplmcnc

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that measures the level of 1,4-dioxane, an industrial chemical, in your serum or plasma to assess exposure.

Quick summary

{"This test measures 1,4-dioxane levels in your blood","It is primarily used for occupational health monitoring","1,4-Dioxane is a potential carcinogen found in certain industrial settings","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results help determine if you have been exposed to this chemical"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12997-3
Short code
1,4-DIOX
Synonyms
1,4Dioxane SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
84600
SNOMED
415551003
Specimen volume
2-5 mL of serum or plasma
Stability
Store at 2-8°C if analyzed within 7 days; otherwise store at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
20
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 1,4-Dioxane blood test measures the amount of 1,4-dioxane, a synthetic industrial chemical, in your serum or plasma. 1,4-Dioxane is a clear liquid used primarily as a solvent in manufacturing processes, including chemical production, paint strippers, and some consumer products. It can enter the body through breathing, skin contact, or contaminated water.

Why is this test performed?

This test is most commonly performed for occupational health monitoring. It is recommended for workers in industries where 1,4-dioxane is used or produced, such as chemical manufacturing, paper processing, and certain types of printing operations. The test helps determine if you have been exposed to 1,4-dioxane and at what level. It may also be used in environmental health investigations when contamination is suspected.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood will be collected in a special tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is simple and takes only a few minutes. No special preparation, such as fasting, is typically required unless instructed by your doctor.

Understanding your results

Your test results will show whether 1,4-dioxane was detected in your blood and at what concentration. The presence of 1,4-dioxane in your blood indicates recent exposure, as the chemical does not accumulate significantly in the body. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results based on your exposure history and occupational background. Even low levels may be significant depending on your work environment.

Reference range

Not detected or < limit of quantification. No established safe threshold for 1,4-dioxane exposure.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient should avoid exposure to products containing 1,4-dioxane prior to collection if possible. Standard phlebotomy procedures apply.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is 1,4-Dioxane dangerous at any level?
The toxicity of 1,4-dioxane depends on the level and duration of exposure. Occupational safety organizations have established exposure limits to protect workers. Your doctor will interpret your results in context with these safety standards.
How long does 1,4-Dioxane stay in my blood?
1,4-Dioxane is relatively rapidly metabolized and eliminated from the body. It has a half-life of approximately 1-2 hours in the body. Detection in blood typically indicates relatively recent exposure, within the past day or so.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation, including fasting, is typically required for this test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or occupational health department.
What should I do if my results show exposure?
If 1,4-dioxane is detected in your blood, your healthcare provider or occupational health specialist will discuss the results with you. They may recommend reviewing your work conditions, safety equipment, and exposure controls. Further testing or monitoring may be advised based on the exposure level.
Can environmental exposure be detected by this test?
Yes, this test can detect 1,4-dioxane exposure from any source, including environmental contamination in drinking water or air. However, occupational exposure is the most common reason for testing.
  1. 1
    ATSDR - 1,4-Dioxane Toxicological ProfileSource
  2. 2
    NIOSH - 1,4-Dioxane Safety and Health TopicsSource
  3. 3
    EPA - 1,4-Dioxane OverviewSource
  4. 4
    LOINC Code 12997-3 ReferenceSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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