• Serum Ethanol Level: This measures the amount of alcohol currently circulating in the blood. Unlike urine tests, which show past use, a blood test reflects the current physiological state of intoxication. Results are typically reported in mg/dL or as a percentage (%).
• Clinical Interpretation: This test is commonly used in forensic cases, emergency medicine, and occupational health screenings to determine recent alcohol consumption.

Why does the report take 24 hours?

While the chemical reaction is quick, toxicology results require strict chain-of-custody verification and pathologist review to ensure accuracy.

Can an alcohol swab at the draw site ruin the test?

Yes. It can lead to a "false positive" or a falsely elevated result, which is why we use non-alcoholic cleaners.

How long does alcohol stay in my blood?

On average, the body clears about 15–20 mg/dL per hour, though this varies based on liver health and metabolism.

Is a blood test more accurate than a breathalyzer?

Yes. Blood serum testing is the gold standard and is generally more accurate than breath or urine testing for legal and medical purposes.

Can "Kombucha" or mouthwash cause a positive result?

Very rarely, though large amounts of alcohol-containing mouthwash or fermented drinks can cause trace detections.

Why use the "ADH" enzyme method?

This method is highly specific to ethanol and is less likely to react to other naturally occurring substances in the body.

What if my result is high but I feel fine?

Chronic drinkers often develop a "tolerance," meaning they may not appear intoxicated even with a high blood alcohol level.

Can medications affect the test?

Most medications don't change the test result, but they can increase the effects of alcohol on your brain.

Can I drink water before the test?

Yes, plain water is fine and does not affect the ethanol concentration in the blood.

Does a "zero" result mean I haven't been drinking?

It means there is no alcohol in your blood now, but it doesn't rule out drinking several hours or days ago.

What is a "Legal Limit"?

In India and many other places, 0.03% (30 mg/dL) or 0.08% (80 mg/dL) are common legal thresholds for driving.

Can liver disease affect the result?

A damaged liver processes alcohol much slower, meaning the ethanol stays in your blood longer.

Is this test done on a fasting sample?

No, fasting is not required.

Does the test detect Methanol or Sanitisers?

This specific ADH method is designed for Ethanol. If toxic alcohol (like Methanol) ingestion is suspected, a different test is needed.

Is the test result confidential?

Absolutely. At Dr. Patho Labs & Diagnostics, your toxicology and diagnostic data are protected by strict privacy protocols.

Since chronic alcohol use can impact your metabolic health, would you like to add a Liver Function Test (LFT) and GGT to this order? They are the best markers for evaluating how your liver is handling alcohol over the long term.