Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug intake by preserving biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer nearly a 90-day detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing roughly 200 strands (approximately a #2 pencil's thickness) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and verification. For extended testing, such as EtG, add-ons, or panels over 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for accurate weighing. If head hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test in a lab involves four crucial stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the initial incorporation of a sample into a lab’s system. This step ensures that the sample was properly sealed and delivered, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for illicit drugs. Though Screening is a cost-effective method to exclude drug usage across many samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal legitimacy. Samples with a presumptive positive outcome necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample demonstrate a presumptive positive in the Screening segment, additional hair from the initial sample is prepared for Extraction. During this phase, hair collections undergo drug extraction at significantly lower concentrations than those in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug analysis the most complex method to implement.
Confirmation of any positive screening findings is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptive positive sample undergoes washing before confirmation as applicable. The full procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation conforms to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis scrutinizes the hair shaft, not the scalp follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Trowbridge, IL
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the former offers enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing not only provides a more comprehensive drug use history but also reduces the chances of tampering, making it a superior choice for thorough screening.
Extended Detection Window in Trowbridge, IL
Hair follicle testing's ability to reveal substance use over an extensive period (up to 90 days) gives employers a detailed view of an individual's drug history. This longer window of detection is invaluable for understanding an applicant or employee's past substance habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Trowbridge, IL
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring the results are trustworthy and indisputable. This method markedly reduces concerns about tampering, bolstering confidence in the reliability of the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Trowbridge, IL
Our widespread network of testing centers guarantees swift and seamless access to services. With facilities available nationwide, including in Trowbridge, IL, getting tested is straightforward and hassle-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Trowbridge, IL
The process for organizing, taking, and collecting results is designed to be both straightforward and confidential. This approach ensures privacy and ease, addressing user concerns about comfort and discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Trowbridge, IL
We offer competitive pricing and quick result processing, ensuring excellent value and assurance for businesses of every size. Our efficient service model provides both cost-effectiveness and timely results, catering to diverse testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Trowbridge, IL
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and rapid results. Their superior accuracy ensures that substance use is detected decisively, offering a high level of reliability. This makes them a preferred choice for quick and dependable screening outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Trowbridge, IL
Employers gain assurance through hair follicle testing, as it supports adherence to workplace drug policies, mitigates legal concerns, and promotes a safer working environment. This test method fosters peace of mind and regulatory compliance.
