This test offers greater sensitivity and accuracy for determination of recent (in the previous 48 hours) alcohol consumption.
In our enhanced package we offer an additional service covering the detection of ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulphate (EtS) in urine. EtG and EtS are direct biomarkers of recent (binge) drinking. They are more stable than ethanol and are consequently more detectable. EtG is a direct metabolite of alcohol, which is formed by enzymatic conjugation of ethanol with glucuronic acid. EtG accounts for a very small, but important percentage of ethanol metabolism and is still detectable in urine even when the alcohol has been completely eliminated from the body.
Urinary alcohol is normally detectable for a few hours after consumption whereas EtG is detectable in urine up to 3-5 days depending on the amount of alcohol consumed.
Ethyl glucuronide (EtG) was described as early as the 1950's, however, clinical use of the test as an alcohol marker began in 2001 when Dr. Friedrich Wurst, in Switzerland, and Dr. Gregory Skipper, in the USA reported a study of alcoholics in a psychiatric facility in Germany. Their findings demonstrated that EtG was a more sensitive and reliable indicator of both drinking and abstinence than was urine alcohol.
Although some studies have identified false positives which have been allegedly produced by substances other than alcohol, Cellmark's partner laboratory undertakes a process of testing Creatinine levels in order to "normalise" the test. When urine is more concentrated all the values are skewed upward and when urine is more dilute the values are skewed downward - normalising takes account of this.
In addition to our testing we would also always recommend that you seek a clinical assessment by a medical professional.
