This panel typically includes ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS), which can be detected for several days after alcohol consumption, and may include phosphatidylethanol (PEth) or other markers of chronic use. LC/MS-MS testing provides highly accurate, specific measurement.
This test is used in addiction treatment monitoring, transplant evaluations, employment and legal settings, and clinical assessments where alcohol use is suspected but blood alcohol may be negative. It can detect alcohol intake even when the patient denies drinking and is more sensitive than self-report. Sample type varies by biomarker (urine, blood, or hair).