Methanol (plasma)

 

Alternative names, keywords

MeOH

Samples required

Fluoride oxalate blood (grey cap, 5 mL tube) - fill tube maximum blood draw (2 mL). Smaller tubes are available for paediatric samples.

Test indications

Suspected methanol poisoning.

Test information

For diagnosis of ethylene glycol/ methanol ingestion request testing on fluoride oxalate (grey top sample) collected closest to admission.

Suggest discussing case with National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) prior to sample collection (tel. no 0344 892011).

Please contact the biochemistry laboratory in advance to inform them a sample will be sent for analysis.

Please note this test has not been UKAS accredited.

Please ensure U&E, glucose, ethanol, osmolality and anion gap have also been analysed in the laboratory.

Reference range

Not applicable.

Endogenous methanol production (up to 2 mg/L) is below the detection limit of the assay.

Turnaround time

Same day analysis on weekdays (09:00 - 17:30). No weekend service routinely available.

Enquiries

Biochemistry (Toxicology)