Test Category: Specialist BiochemistryToxicology
Investigation Name:Ethanol (Confirmation)
Alias or Abbreviation:ETH, ALC
Accreditation:UKAS Accredited ISO15189:2022, on scope
Intro:
Ethanol is a psychoactive compound found in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol analysis is performed for suspected intoxication and quantitative levels can help determine the level of intoxication. It may also be indicated in patients to confirm abstinence.Pathology Laboratory:Toxicology Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Units:mg/L
Minimum Sample Volume:50µL
Expected Turnaround Time:1 working day from sample receipt.
Test Code:ETHU
Sample Type:
A minimum of 50µL of urine in a plain (white top) universal container is required.Complex Reference Range:The current drink-drive limit for England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 800 mg/L. For Scotland it is 500mg/L.
Mild: 200-500 mg/L
Moderate: 1000-2000mg/L
Severe: 2000-4500 mg/L
Fatal: >4500 mg/L
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Samples should be stored at 4°C prior to sending and transported at ambient temperature using the normal postal system.
Posting Address / Requirements:Sandwell Health Campus
Pathology department,
Specialist Chemistry,
Lyndon,
B71 4HJ
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available:NPEX and PDF reporting is available.
EQA Scheme:The laboratory is on Ethanol and Methanol EQA scheme with LGC Standards PT schemes.
Lead Contact Details:Lauren Starbrook, Consultant Clinical Scientist
Email: lauren.starbrook@nhs.net
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Methodology:This is analysed on Headspace GC-FID.
Site Sample Tested:City Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:0121 507 4138
