Blood alcohol testing
Blood alcohol testing is usually required in combination with a hair alcohol test for court to prove abstinence from alcohol. As a result, laboratory reports for blood alcohol testing are court admissible. Blood alcohol and hair alcohol testing is a popular choice for family court and legal matters.
How does blood alcohol testing work?
Blood alcohol testing should be used in combination with a hair alcohol test. This will provide the most accurate picture of alcohol intake.
Haematology report
The haematology report (Full blood count) includes Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) analysis. This measures the volume of the red blood cells, to indicate a person’s alcohol intake.
Biochemistry Report
The biochemistry analysis includes the Liver Function Test (LFT) and Carbohydrate Deficient Transferrin (CDT) analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the full blood count show in the blood alcohol test?
Heavy and frequent drinking increases the size of red blood cells to outside of the normal range. Therefore, an increased volume of the red blood cells could indicate excessive alcohol consumption.
What happens at the appointment for a blood alcohol test?
We identify the donor at the appointment, using photographic identification. Next, we collect the blood sample, seal and barcode the collection tubes. The entire collection process follows strict chain of custody procedures and you will need to sign consent to have your blood sample tested.
We perform your blood test under strict chain of custody protocols by fully trained and certified Phlebotomists. The test is available at selected Drug Testing Clinics or via the mobile collection service.
Finally, we will issue your test report within 3 to 5 working days of receiving your sample. Usually, this is only 3 working days. Also, blood alcohol test costs include the results package.
Blood alcohol testing is available at selected UK clinics only. Or, you can request a trained mobile collection officer to attend your location.
What is the cost of the blood alcohol test?
Blood alcohol test costs are from only £500, which includes hair alcohol analysis. Also, if needed, we can produce an Expert Witness Statement for an additional £174. This can provide more detailed information about a result.
Prices quoted include VAT.
What does the LFT and CDT analysis show in the blood alcohol test?
The LFT measures various enzymes in the blood that are produced by the liver. Long term alcohol intake causes damage and inflammation of the liver, causing an abnormal result. The test will look for the level of certain makers associated with liver damage. This includes Total Protein, Albumin, and Globulin. If the level of a marker is above or below the normal range, this can indicate the liver is not functioning correctly.
CDT is widely recognised as a bio-marker of chronic alcohol consumption. Transferrin is a protein produced in the liver. When a person is drinking alcohol at a chronic level, carbohydrates are removed from the transferrin molecule. As a result, when there is a high percentage of transferrin with reduced amounts of carbohydrates (CDT), it can indicate alcohol abuse.
The CDT analysis covers a period of approximately 2 weeks. Whereas an abnormal LFT result is caused by sustained excessive drinking.
When used in combination with a hair alcohol test, which covers up to a 6-month period, the most accurate long-term overview of a person’s alcohol use can be provided.
Example of CDT Interpretation:
- ≤ 1.7% – No excess alcohol intake
- > 1.6 – 1.9% – Intake may be high but not necessarily in the range of dependence
- >2.0% – Excess alcohol intake
When should the blood alcohol test be used?
Blood alcohol tests can indicate if alcohol is being consumed excessively. As a result, a test may be required for legal proceedings, or to monitor a person’s alcohol intake.Social drinkers and even binge drinking episodes should not cause an abnormal test result. As a result, a blood alcohol test cannot be used in isolation to prove abstinence. As such, we recommend a hair alcohol test in combination with a blood alcohol test.
A variety of civil or legal sectors, including Social Services request this test. In addition, private individuals also use the test to determine alcohol intake or evidence of abstinence.
Also, an Expert Witness Statement can give a further understanding of the test report. You can discuss this at the time of your booking with a Clinical Advisor.
How can I book an appointment for the blood alcohol test?
The easiest way to book an appointment is by calling 0800 988 7107 and speaking to our team. Or, you can email [email protected]
Whatever method you choose, we will guide you through the process and get you booked in as quickly as possible.
Local drug testing clinics, and mobile locations throughout the UK
For your convenience, we have a network of drug testing clinics throughout the UK. As a result, we can provide drug and alcohol test appointments for you in your local area. Or we can arrange for a certified sample collection officer to visit your home, workplace, or other location.
Our Headquarters
Crystal Health Group
The Old Chapel
Manchester
M30 0NG