Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The assessment of hair samples is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands encapsulate a long-term record of these substances by incorporating biomarkers within their growing fibers. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it can reveal usage history for up to a three-month period for both alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch length of around 200 hair strands (roughly comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) found closest to the scalp yields a sample size of 100mg, which is optimal for scrutiny and confirmation. For EtG, supplemental tests, and/or evaluations exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, a similar quantity of body hair may be gathered. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair, whereas body hair signifies all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Processing Overview
Drug test results pass through four key laboratory steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
The Accessioning phase pertains to the initial sample intake into a laboratory’s system. This step ensures the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and fills any missing data not captured by an electronic custody system.
Screening is an expedient preliminary check for drug presence. Though Screening offers a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage for most samples, any positive findings must undergo confirmation for legal validity. Samples flagged as presumptively positive in Screening necessitate additional verification.
For samples flagged during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample to prepare for Extraction. This phase isolates drugs from hair at more reduced concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), underscoring the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Any positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before Confirming as warranted. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair compliance and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests," the focus is on the hair strand, not the follicle residing beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Plymouth Township, MI. In comparing testing methods, hair analysis offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests are less prone to tampering and provide results reflecting a broader timeline of drug use, ensuring a more comprehensive view of an individual's drug habits.
Extended Detection Window in Plymouth Township, MI. Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window, making it invaluable for employers. With the ability to detect drug usage for up to 90 days, employers get a thorough insight into an individual’s substance history, aiding informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Plymouth Township, MI. Hair follicle tests provide foolproof results, significantly minimizing the chances of sample alteration. This method assures accurate and reliable results, leaving little room for doubt or manipulation in drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Plymouth Township, MI. Our widespread network of testing centers offers unmatched convenience, promising swift and hassle-free access to our services, whether nationwide or within Plymouth Township, streamlining the drug testing process for users.
Simple, Confidential Process in Plymouth Township, MI. The drug testing process is designed to be straightforward and private. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every step ensures privacy and simplicity, addressing client concerns about confidentiality and ease.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Plymouth Township, MI. We pride ourselves on competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, providing exceptional value. Our services cater to companies of all sizes, guaranteeing both affordability and efficiency in drug testing processes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Plymouth Township, MI. Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their quick and precise results. With high accuracy in identifying substance use, they're trusted by many. Results are not only reliable but also prompt, providing a clearer picture of one's drug history in a shorter time frame.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Plymouth Township, MI. Utilizing hair follicle testing aids in aligning with workplace drug-free standards, mitigating legal liabilities. This not only ensures adherence to policies but also promotes a safer, drug-free environment.
