Test Entry - Detail

Phosphatidylethanol (PETH)

General

Clinical Use:

Individuals who consume no alcohol, or little alcohol, have phosphatidylethanol concentrations under 20 micrograms per litre of erythrocytes. A concentration exceeding 20 micrograms per litre of erythrocytes indicates alcohol consumption; research only, not intended for medico-legal use.
HCT result required to report results. HCT performed at regional and metro PathWest Laboratories and referral laboratories prior to sending specimen to testing laboratory.

Availability:

Samples are batched and tested fortnightly.

Aliases/Synonyms:

PETH, Phosphatidyl ethanol, Phosphatidylethanol, POPETH,

Code:

PETH

Handling Instructions (to laboratory):

Send sample chilled.

Hyperlink:

Reference Interval:

Refer to report or laboratory

Collection Requirements

Container:

EDTA (LAVENDER),

Sample Type:

See container

Minimum Collection Volume:

1mL

Collection Instructions:

Perform HCT prior to sending to testing laboratory.
For referred samples, the sending laboratory must perform a HCT and include the HCT result with the paperwork prior to transport to the testing laboratory.
Non-medicare rebateable item. All patients except Public, VA and Pensioners must pay $110 upfront.

Processing Requirements

Alternate Containers:

Processing Instructions:

HCT result from referred laboratory must be scanned into patient record.

Minimum Assay Volume:

0.5mL

Stability:

< 24 hours ambient; 5 days chilled

Transport Instructions (to testing laboratory):

Send sample chilled.

Testing Locations

Performed at:

Section	Department	Site	Contact Phone
Toxicology	Clinical Pharmacology	QEII Medical Centre	6383 4126

Last Updated : 28-11-2025 08:18