Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of substances by embedding biomarkers within the hair shaft as it grows. When acquired near the scalp, hair can present roughly up to a 3-month detection period for substances. Its collection is straightforward, adulteration is relatively challenging, and it is easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. It's suggested to use a jeweler's scale for weighing. If scalp hair cannot be sourced, a similar quantity of body hair is sufficient. Referring to head hair pertains solely to scalp hair. Conversely, body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory drug test methodology involves four crucial phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of sample integration into a lab's system. This covers the confirmation of proper sealing and shipment of the sample, the assignment of a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and the completion of other data entries not handled by electronic custody systems.
Screening includes an initial expedited check for drugs. Though Screening is a cost-efficient way to dismiss drug usage for most samples, it doesn't hold up in court until confirmed. Samples with presumptive positives in Screening require further confirmation.
Samples marked presumptive positive in the Screening phase undergo additional hair extraction from the initial sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are removed from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), presenting hair drug screening as one of the most challenging methods to perform.
Confirmation of any positive result from screening utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Testing Reigns Superior in Saint James, IL. Hair follicle testing offers unmatched detection accuracy and reliability. Hair-based assessments provide an extensively longer detection period, capturing substance use over the last 90 days, unrivaled by traditional urine tests.
Long-Term Detection in Saint James, IL offers employers a far-reaching view of an applicant or employee's substance history. Unlike conventional methods, hair testing detects drug use up to 90 days prior, offering a thorough assessment.
Reliable Hair Testing in Saint James, IL significantly cuts down on sample tampering risks. This method ensures that results are trustworthy and indisputable, offering peace of mind through its tamper-resistant process.
Convenient Testing Centers in Saint James and Nationwide. Our wide-spanning network guarantees that testing is quick, simple, and accessible.
Effortless and Confidential in Saint James, IL. Our process for ordering, taking, and receiving results emphasizes privacy and ease of use, addressing privacy concerns with professionalism.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Turnaround in Saint James, IL. Our pricing structures are designed for affordability, with fast delivery of results providing excellent value to businesses of every scale.
High-Accuracy Hair Testing in Saint James, IL delivers precise and speedy results. Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their superior accuracy in identifying substance usage, compared to other methods.
Ensuring Compliance for Employers in Saint James, IL. Adopting hair follicle testing confirms adherence to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks and bolstering workplace safety.
