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Why Does A Blood Test Show Ethanol When No Alcohol Was Taken?

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Posted on Tue, 28 Apr 2015
Question: I need to determine if and how frequently a urine ua will show a false positive. I am currently in treatment. This just happened to me. I am not drinking!! I am asking for a soluyion to this if one exists. I am gathering as much info as possible on this subject. Thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Yes, false positive is possible

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

The urine test , The EtG, detects the presence of ethyl glucuronide in urine samples. This test is used to monitor alcohol consumption. The test is very sensitive as it it can produce a positive test for ethyl glucoronide from minute quantities of alcohol present in many daily use products. The frequency of false positives depends on the individual exposure to these products. Gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry is a more accurate test an can determine the results both qualitatively and quantitatively. You may ask your doctor to send a sample for GC/MS to be more sure and have peace of mind.


wishing you best of health

thanks

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.


Dr. M.S. Khalil
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems and comprehensive renal care, talk to a Nephrologist. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2012

Answered : 2906 Questions

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Why Does A Blood Test Show Ethanol When No Alcohol Was Taken?

Brief Answer: Yes, false positive is possible Detailed Answer: Hello and Welcome I appreciate your concern The urine test , The EtG, detects the presence of ethyl glucuronide in urine samples. This test is used to monitor alcohol consumption. The test is very sensitive as it it can produce a positive test for ethyl glucoronide from minute quantities of alcohol present in many daily use products. The frequency of false positives depends on the individual exposure to these products. Gas chromatograph/mass spectrometry is a more accurate test an can determine the results both qualitatively and quantitatively. You may ask your doctor to send a sample for GC/MS to be more sure and have peace of mind. wishing you best of health thanks Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action. Dr. M.S. Khalil