Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures long-term data on substances by encasing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. If collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use up to a 3-month period. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is not easy, and shipping is convenient.
A sample of 1.5 inches containing approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those comprising more than 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It is advisable to use a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. In scenarios where scalp hair is not available, body hair can serve as an alternative. When discussing head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where a sample is integrated into the lab’s system. This phase includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any supplementary data input absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While it is an economical method to exclude drug usage in most instances, a positive result in Screening necessitates a secondary confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples showing a presumptively positive result in Screening require further confirmation.
For samples testing presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair from the original sample undergoes preparation for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a complex methodology.
Confirmation for any positive Screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples receive necessary washing prior to confirmation. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
When comparing hair follicle vs. urine testing in Marlow Heights, MD, hair tests offer superior detection. Their accuracy and reliability in identifying drug use over an extended period make hair follicle testing an advantageous option for various stakeholders.
Key Benefits include an extended detection window and tamper-proof nature. As a result, hair testing is a trustworthy alternative to traditional methods.
Hair follicle testing in Marlow Heights, MD, extends drug detection to up to 90 days, offering a broader view of an individual’s substance use history. This long detection window is indispensable for employers seeking comprehensive evaluations.
Extended Reach, it reveals substance patterns far beyond what standard tests can uncover, documenting a clearer picture.
In Marlow Heights, MD, hair follicle tests significantly reduce the chances of tampering, offering dependable results that are hard to question. This makes them an ideal choice for stakeholders demanding uncontested outcomes.
Secured Testing, these tests deter adulteration effectively, ensuring test credibility and authenticity.
Access convenient nationwide and local testing centers in Marlow Heights, MD, ensuring hassle-free and swift testing services. The strategic availability in numerous locations simplifies the complex logistics of drug testing.
Convenience Everywhere, our locations cater to various needs, ensuring prompt and efficient service.
The hair follicle testing process in Marlow Heights, MD, is designed to be simple and confidential, from ordering tests to receiving results. This ensures that the concerns of privacy and ease are addressed at every step.
Simplicity and Discretion, our services guarantee a smooth, private, and user-friendly experience throughout.
Our competitive pricing structure in Marlow Heights, MD, combined with fast turnaround times, offers excellent value for companies of various sizes. This affordability ensures that businesses can efficiently manage drug testing without financial strains.
Cost-Effective Solutions, we balance value and quality, providing rapid results without compromising on accuracy.
Residents and employers in Marlow Heights, MD, benefit from the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests. Their high accuracy in identifying substance use ensures reliable and swift results, setting a new standard in drug testing.
Fast, Accurate, Reliable, these tests stand out for their ability to provide results with both precision and speed, making them a preferred choice in Marlow Heights.
Hair follicle testing in Marlow Heights, MD, ensures compliance with drug-free policies at workplaces, reducing legal risks and boosting safety. Whether for pre-employment or regular checks, it provides peace of mind and assurance against substance abuse.
Peaceful Compliance, these tests help organizations adhere to necessary standards while maintaining a safe environment.
