Medtox
Synonyms
Benzol; Cyclohexatriene
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
Whole blood, heparinized
Volume
20 mL
Minimum Volume
7 mL
Container
Green-top (heparin) tube
Collection
Collect a minimum of two tubes; tubes should be filled to prevent loss of volatile into headspace. Collection time: End of shift or end of exposure
Storage Instructions
Submission/transport (<3 days): Refrigerate. For storage beyond three days, specimen should be frozen.
Test Details
Use
Evaluate exposure to benzene
Methodology
Headspace gas chromatography/flame ionization detection (GC/FID)
Reference Interval
Normal (unexposed population): none detected; Exposed (end of shift): Blood benzene concentrations of greater than 0.1 mg/l correlate with exposure to greater than 10 ppm benzene in air; Toxic: Blood benzene concentrations greater than 0.9 mg/l have been observed in fatal cases of benzene exposure.