What is the purpose of this test?
The Vitamin E Serum Test measures the amount of vitamin E in your blood. Vitamin E is an important nutrient that acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect your cells from damage. It also plays a role in keeping your immune system strong and your skin healthy. By checking the levels of vitamin E in your blood, doctors can see if you have enough of this essential vitamin.
Doctors use the Vitamin E Serum Test to diagnose deficiencies or excesses of vitamin E. Low levels can lead to problems like nerve damage, muscle weakness, and vision issues, while very high levels might cause other health problems. This test is especially useful for people who have conditions that affect how they absorb nutrients, such as cystic fibrosis or Crohn's disease, or for those who are showing symptoms of vitamin E deficiency.
Who should get this test?
A Vitamin E Serum Test can benefit individuals who need to check their vitamin E levels for various health reasons. Here are the groups of people who would benefit from this test:
- People with symptoms of vitamin E deficiency: Symptoms like muscle weakness, vision problems, and difficulty walking.
- People with malabsorption disorders: Conditions like Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or cystic fibrosis that affect nutrient absorption.
- People with liver disease: Liver problems can impact how the body uses vitamin E.
- People with certain genetic disorders: Disorders like abetalipoproteinemia, which affect how fats and vitamins are absorbed.
- Premature infants: They may be at risk for vitamin E deficiency and need monitoring.
- People on strict diets or with poor nutrition: To ensure they are getting enough vitamin E from their diet.
- Individuals taking high doses of vitamin E supplements: To check for potential vitamin E toxicity.
These individuals can benefit from a Vitamin E Serum Test to ensure they have the right levels of vitamin E for optimal health.
When should I order this test?
You should consider ordering a Vitamin E Serum Test if you have symptoms that might indicate a vitamin E deficiency or other health issues related to vitamin E levels. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
- Muscle weakness
- Vision problems
- Nerve issues
- Immune problems
- Balance problems
- Fatigue
- Poor wound healing
If you have these symptoms, talk to your doctor about whether a Vitamin E Serum Test is right for you to check your vitamin E levels and address any potential deficiencies.
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Test Code(s):
070140, 931
Also Known As:
Alpha Tocopherol; Vitamin E1; Gamma-tocopherol
Preparation:
Fasting for 12 hours is required. Patients should avoid consuming alcohol and vitamin supplements for at least 24 hours before the collection as it may affect the accuracy of results.
Test Results:
3-4 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
