Acetonitrilebldmcnc
A blood test that measures acetonitrile levels to detect chemical exposure or poisoning from this industrial solvent.
{"Acetonitrile is an industrial chemical used in manufacturing","This test checks for exposure or poisoning from acetonitrile","Blood sample is collected from a vein","Common in occupational health monitoring","Symptoms of poisoning include headache, nausea, and difficulty breathing"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1706-1
- Short code
- ACN
- Synonyms
- Acetonitrile Bld-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Gray-top tube (sodium fluoride/potassium oxalate) - gray stopper
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 0.1
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Headspace Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS)
- CPT
- 82491
- SNOMED
- 413583006
- Specimen volume
- 2-3 mL whole blood
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Store upright to prevent evaporation of volatile analyte.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The blood acetonitrile test measures the amount of acetonitrile in your blood. Acetonitrile (also called methyl cyanide) is a colorless liquid chemical used in many industrial processes, including making plastics, rubber, adhesives, and pesticides. It is also used in some laboratory and manufacturing settings.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if: (1) you work with acetonitrile and your employer requires routine monitoring for chemical exposure, (2) you have symptoms of acetonitrile poisoning such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, or chest pain, (3) you have been accidentally or intentionally exposed to acetonitrile, or (4) during treatment for acetonitrile poisoning to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
How is the test done?
A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed to measure the concentration of acetonitrile. The procedure only takes a few minutes and is generally safe with minimal risks, such as slight bruising or soreness at the needle site.
How to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually needed for this test. However, inform your doctor about any medications, supplements, or substances you have recently been exposed to, as these may affect the test results. If you work with acetonitrile, tell your doctor about your occupational exposure.
Understanding your results
Results are typically reported as present or absent, or as a concentration level. Your doctor will interpret the results based on your symptoms, exposure history, and clinical situation. If acetonitrile is detected at concerning levels, treatment may be necessary, which may include oxygen therapy, antidotes, and supportive care.
Reference range
Not detected (< 0.1 mg/L) - Background exposure levels typically below detection thresholdN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid exposure to acetonitrile-containing products (nail polish removers, adhesives, industrial solvents) for 24 hours prior to collection if possible. Inform laboratory of any occupational exposure history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Is acetonitrile exposure common?
How soon after exposure can acetonitrile be detected in blood?
What are the symptoms of acetonitrile poisoning?
How is acetonitrile poisoning treated?
Can this test be done at any hospital?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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