Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in Whole Blood

Brief Description

This LRN-C developed method is used to quantitatively measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as Benzene, 1, 2 Dichloroethane, Carbon tetrachloride, Chloroform, Benzene,1, 2 Dichloroethane, Ethybenzene, Styrene, Toluene, Tetrachloroethene, m/p-Xylene, and o-Xylene, in whole blood samples by solid phase micro extraction (SPME) gas chromatography with mass selective detection (3,4). The method uses an isotopically labeled internal standard to quantitate the amount of each analyte. In situations of exposure, the method would be used to identify the toxic agent and to assist in assessing the degree of exposure.

Laboratory Unit

Chemical Threat

Methodology

GC/MSD

Specimen Collection

  • Whole Blood:
    • Green (Lithium Heparin) or Gray (Sodium Fluoride) tubes. Minimum of 1 mL of specimen. Two empty containers of the same lot number submitted with the specimen.
  • Whole blood/Serum:
    • Green (Lithium Heparin) or Gray (Sodium Fluoride) tubes. Minimum of 1 mL of specimen. Two empty containers of the same lot number submitted with the specimen.

Storage/Transport

Consultation is required with GPHL Emergency Response Coordinator Req 24/7 contact number: 866-782-4584.

If samples are being submitted from a known or suspected intentional chemical release, forensic integrity should be maintained. Two layers of forensic evidence tape should be applied. Initials of the person sealing the containers should appear half on and half off the tape. Contact GPHL for additional information related to Chain of Custody and packaging guidelines. 

  • Whole blood can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (4-10°C) during transit.
  • Whole blood/serum can be maintained at refrigerated temperature (4-10°C) during transit.
  • Download this pdf file. FRM-QA 4 Refrigeration Outfit Guide

Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

  • Whole Blood
  • Whole blood/Serum

Test Request

Possible Results

  • Chloroform 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • 1,2 Dichloroethane 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • Carbon Tetrachloride 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • Benzene 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • Toluene 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • Tetrachloroethene 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • Ethylbenzene 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • o-Xylene 100 µg/L – 10,000 µg/L
  • m/p-Xylene 200 µg/L – 20,000 µg/L
  • Not detected
  • Unsatisfactory
  • PGC (Present by greater than highest calibrator)

Reference Range

Not detected

Unacceptable Conditions

  • Missing testing requisition
  • Missing minimum of 2 patient identifiers
  • No specimen received
  • Empty specimen container
  • Low volume (< 1 mL)
  • Suspected contamination
  • Expired sample collection container
  • Failure to maintain temperature
  • Clotted, Frozen, or hemolyzed specimens
  • Specimens damaged, leaking, or broken upon arrival

Interfering Substances

N/A

Result Reported

1-3 business days

Turnaround times may be affected by the scale of the event.

Fees

No charge

LOINC/Order Codes

55116-8 (Order code: CT011200)