Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now widely recognized as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair samples can offer a detection period of up to three months for both alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, moderately resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch length of around 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal volume for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests above 10 panels, 150mg of sample is advised. It's recommended to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, the equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair means scalp hair specifically. Body hair includes all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The main phases in lab processing for a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is processed into a laboratory’s system. This involves ensuring the sample is appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning it a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is the initial, quick assessment for the presence of drugs of abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-effective means to exclude drug use for most samples, positive screens require confirmation to be valid in court. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample is found to be presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis one of the most complex methodologies to perform.
Any positive results in Screening are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The complete laboratory cycle from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The test often called a "hair follicle test" actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle found below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Trumps Urine Testing in Lisbon Falls, ME is clear. Hair testing offers superior detection capabilities compared to urine tests.
The reliability of hair tests makes them highly advantageous, allowing for a more comprehensive view of substance use history, preferred by many over traditional urine testing methods.
Extended Detection Window in Lisbon Falls, ME sets hair follicle testing apart, allowing for substance use detection up to 90 days.
With such extended analysis, hair tests provide a comprehensive perspective, beneficial for thorough assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing in Lisbon Falls, ME ensures the integrity of hair follicle tests. This method significantly lowers the risk of tampering.
Reliable results provide confidence, making them the method of choice for those who prioritize security and accuracy.
Convenient Testing Locations in Lisbon Falls, ME are part of our nationwide network, providing easy access.
This strategic spread ensures that testing is accessible and convenient for all, meeting local needs swiftly and efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lisbon Falls, ME defines our testing approach.
From order to result, clients experience a seamless process, ensuring comfort and confidentiality at every stage.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lisbon Falls, ME underline our service value. With competitive pricing, we ensure that high-quality testing remains cost-effective.
The combination of quick service and reasonable costs provides unmatched value in the testing industry.
Fast, Accurate Results in Lisbon Falls, ME are a hallmark of hair follicle drug testing. This method is distinguished by its precision and efficiency in detecting substance use.
The accuracy offered by hair follicle tests ensures reliable detection, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing precision and speed in substance testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lisbon Falls, ME are achievable with hair follicle testing.
Employers can enhance workplace safety, knowing that their testing regimen upholds stringent standards, reinforcing peace of mind.
