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Alpha-, Beta-, and Gamma-Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures the major forms of vitamin E in blood to help evaluate vitamin E status, nutrition, absorption, and supplementation.

Quick summary

["This blood test shows whether your vitamin E levels are adequate and may be used to monitor deficiency, malabsorption, or supplementation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44076-8
Short code
A & B+G Tocopherol SerPl-Imp
Synonyms
A & B+G Tocopherol SerPl-Imp
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
5
Ref high
20
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures alpha-, beta-, and gamma-tocopherol, the main forms of vitamin E, in serum or plasma. Alpha-tocopherol is the form most closely associated with vitamin E activity in the body.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest vitamin E deficiency or when there is concern about poor nutrition, fat malabsorption, a disorder that affects vitamin E transport, or prolonged use of vitamin E supplements.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma is separated for laboratory analysis. The laboratory measures the tocopherol forms, sometimes allowing the alpha-tocopherol result to be interpreted along with the total vitamin E level.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's or laboratory's fasting instructions. Recent vitamin E supplements and vitamin E-rich foods can affect the result, so tell the laboratory about them; do not stop prescribed supplements unless your clinician instructs you to do so.

Reference range

NCBI: Vitamin E 5-20 µg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vitamin E, serum/plasma

Frequently asked questions

What does this test measure?
It measures alpha-, beta-, and gamma-tocopherol in serum or plasma. These compounds are different forms of vitamin E.
What can cause a low vitamin E level?
Low levels can result from insufficient dietary intake, malabsorption, certain digestive or genetic disorders, or increased needs. Your clinician will consider your medical history and other test results.
Do I need to stop taking vitamin E supplements before the test?
Tell the laboratory about all supplements because they can raise the result. Ask your clinician whether to pause them, and never stop prescribed supplements without medical advice.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy