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Test Code Billings Clinic: 4511 ARUP: 3002598 Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) ARUP

Performing Laboratory

ARUP Laboratories

Useful For

  • Biomarker associated with ethanol consumption

  • Identifies chronic heavy ethanol use for up to 28 days

  • May be helpful in monitoring alcohol abstinence.

Methodology

Quantitative Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type:

  • Lavender (K2 or K3 EDTA).
  • Also acceptable: Gray (Potassium Oxalate/Sodium Flouride). 

Specimen Transport:

  • Transport 1 mL whole blood. (Min: 0.5 mL) 
  • Transport refrigerated

Storage/Stability

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Whole Blood Refrigerated (preferred) 2 weeks
  Frozen 6 months

Reject Due To

  • Specimen received ambient
  • Specimen collected in incorrect collection tube

Reference Values

Negative

 

Test Interpretation

  • Concentration > 20 ng/mL is considered evidence of moderate to heavy ethanol use
  • Results should be interpreted within clinical, environmental, and behavioral contexts.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Varies

Test Classification and CPT Coding

80321

LOINC Code Information

Reporting Name LOINC Code
Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) 74661-0