Medtox
Synonyms
Methyl Alcohol; Methanol
Expected Turnaround Time
7 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Related Information
In-house validated method
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum or plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top (no additive) tube or green-top (heparin) tube. Gel-barrier tubes are not recommended.
Collection
Separate serum or plasma from cells within 30 minutes of collection. Transfer separated serum or plasma to a plastic transport tube, filling the transport tube completely to prevent loss of volatile compound into headspace.
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport (<3 days): Refrigerate. For storage beyond three days, specimen should be frozen.
Test Details
Use
Evaluate exposure to methanol
Methodology
Gas chromatography/flame ionization detection (GC/FID)
Reference Interval
Normal (unexposed population): none detected; Exposed: not established; Toxic: greater than 20 mg/dL