Clinical Education Center

Question 1. Which alcohol metabolites are measured in this test?

Ethyl sulfate (EtS) is the alcohol (ie, ethyl alcohol, ethanol) metabolite measured in this test.

Question 2. What is the clinical significance of EtS measurements?

EtS measurements are typically used to determine whether an individual has been exposed to alcohol (ethanol).

Question 3. Which method is used, and what is the reference range for this test?

EtS concentration is measured in oral fluid using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). A concentration of ≥25 ng/mL is considered positive for alcohol exposure. An EtS concentration <25 ng/mL is considered a negative result.

Question 4. Can incidental alcohol exposure cause a positive test result?

Yes, incidental exposure can cause a positive result. This LC/MS/MS method detects EtS regardless of the source (eg, alcohol consumption, medication patch containing a high concentration of ethanol, etc.). Therefore, we encourage you to interpret test results in context with the clinical picture.

Question 5. How long after alcohol exposure are alcohol metabolites present in the oral fluid?

EtS may be detectable for 24 hours or more after ingestion. The exact time depends on the cutoff used for the test, the patient’s metabolic rate, and the time and duration of alcohol exposure.

Question 6. What is the turnaround time for this test?

Specimens are tested upon arrival at the laboratory and reported within 1 to 3 days.

Question 7. Which Quest Diagnostics laboratories will perform this test?

This test is currently performed at Chantilly, VA. 

Question 8. Whom should a client call with questions about this test?

If you have any questions regarding this information or require assistance with interpreting these drug test results, please contact a Quest Diagnostics toxicology specialist at 1.877.40.RXTOX (1.877.407.9869). Specialists are available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM EST.