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HelpTest Code ALC Alcohol (Ethanol), Plasma or Serum
Additional Codes
LAB46
Important Notes
Alcohol (Ethanol), Plasma or Serum test is for medical use only.
Collection Instructions
DO NOT use alcohol or other volatile disinfectants at the site of venipuncture. Aqueous Zephiran (benzalkonium chloride), aqueous Merthiolate (thimerosal), or providone-iodine may be used.
Collection Method
Venous collection
Container
Lt Green / Plasma Separator / Lithium Heparin
Specimen Type
Preferred
Plasma- Light Green Top
Acceptable
Serum- Gold Top SST or Red Top
Minimum Volume
0.5ml
Specimen Stability
| Ambient | 2 days |
| Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C) | 2 weeks |
| Frozen(-40°C to 0°C) | 4 weeks |
Reference or Target Ranges
<10 mg/dL
Reportable Units
mg/dL
Critical Value
≥ 400 mg/dL
Reasons for Rejection
| Hemolysis Threshold | 200 mg/dL |
| Icterus Threshold | 30 mg/dL |
| Lipemia Threshold | 500 mg/dL |
| Other | QNS, contaminated, improperly Labeled, improper specimen type |
Performance Information
| Days and Time Performed | 24/7 |
| Expected Turn Around Time |
Stat: 1 hour Routine: 4 hours |
| Stat Availability | Yes |
| Performing Bench | CPH Chemistry |
| Methodology/Method Description | Roche Cobas |
Limitations
|
Compound |
% cross-reactivity (serum) |
% cross-reactivity (urine) |
|
n-Propanol |
8.0 |
9.9 |
|
n-Butanol |
2.8 |
1.5 |
|
Isopropanol |
0.2 |
0.5 |
|
Acetone |
0.0 |
0.2 |
|
Ethylene glycol |
0.0 |
0.2 |
|
Methanol |
-0.1 |
0.2 |
|
Acetaldehyde |
-1.1 |
-0.3 |
% cross-reactivity = [(mg/dL apparent ethanol)/(mg/dL cross-reactant in sample)] x 100
For diagnostic purposes, the results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and other findings.
Refer to manufacturer insert for a complete list of interfering substances
CPT Codes
82077
Last review/edit date
2025