Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Sterling, MI

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It captures a prolonged timeline of drug and alcohol history by embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair samples can offer a detection period of around three months for substances. The collection method is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to send for analysis.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides an ideal 100mg quantity for initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or panels over 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It is recommended to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the samples. In the absence of scalp hair, collecting a similar quantity of body hair is acceptable. The term "head hair" exclusively refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other varieties (such as facial or underarm hair).

Process Overview

The procedure in the lab for processing a drug test outcome encompasses four core stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of the sample into the laboratory system. This involves checking for proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic custody chain system.

Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While this step is a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive screening necessitates confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptive positives detected during this stage require secondary confirmation.

If a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for the Extraction process. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to execute.

Positive screening outcomes are confirmed using techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is thoroughly reviewed in accordance with both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and accreditation per ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection window.
• Reduced chance of fraud: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely challenging, thus offering more reliable results.
• Historical pattern display: It reveals a pattern of drug use over time, rather than capturing only recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to pinpoint recent use: Substance detection in hair takes about 5-7 days post-consumption.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other drug testing methods.
• Result variations: Drug metabolite concentration in hair can be affected by factors such as hair color and individual growth variations.

Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the actual test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sterling, MI

Hair testing presents distinct advantages over traditional urine tests. Its superior detection capabilities outshine urine, offering results that are both reliable and hard to dispute. The extended detection window of up to 90 days ensures a thorough examination of an individual's drug history.

Conversely, urine tests provide short-term insights, making them less effective for comprehensive analysis. Hair tests' increased accuracy offers peace of mind for employers enforcing zero-tolerance policies.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Sterling, MI

The hair follicle test in Sterling, MI, provides an extended detection window of up to 90 days, offering a broader perspective of an individual's substance history. This comprehensive oversight empowers employers to make well-informed decisions based on more complete information.

By covering a more extended period, hair tests reveal patterns of use that short-term tests like urine would miss, making it invaluable for screening processes demanding a deeper insight into lifestyle choices.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sterling, MI

Hair follicle testing in Sterling, MI, is a trustworthy and secure screening method. The difficulty in manipulating a hair sample makes it resistant to tampering. This reliability ensures that results reflect an accurate assessment of substance use.

Unquestionable results stem from the observed collection process, reducing adulteration risks to a minimum. Testing integrity is paramount, giving employers a dependable tool to assess compliance with substance policies.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sterling, MI

Thanks to our wide-reaching network, testing in Sterling, MI, and beyond is convenient and stress-free. Each testing center is equipped to deliver fast service without geographical barriers, ensuring comprehensive reach. Whether near or far, our centers are accessible, providing seamless testing options for all clients.

This extensive coverage ensures that obtaining a test when needed is never a hassle, offering clients ease and simplicity at every step.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Sterling, MI

In Sterling, MI, the hair testing process is both simple and confidential. From initial ordering to obtaining results, each step respects privacy, providing peace of mind for individuals undergoing testing.

Our streamlined process ensures ease of use, eliminating stress often associated with testing. Confidentiality is maintained throughout, offering maximum security and discretion to participants.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sterling, MI

Our commitment in Sterling, MI, is to provide affordable hair follicle testing with quick turnaround times, ensuring clients receive excellent value. Our competitive pricing makes quality drug testing accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Fast processing times mean minimal waiting for results, allowing businesses to make timely decisions without financial strain. This dual approach of affordability and efficiency maximizes value and opportunity.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sterling, MI

In Sterling, MI, obtaining quick and precise results is paramount. Hair follicle tests provide exceptional accuracy in uncovering substance use. The efficiency of these tests, combined with their ability to quickly process results, ensures employers and individuals can rely on the outcomes with confidence.

Each analysis undergoes rigorous quality control, eliminating doubts about the findings. The swiftness in delivering results means less waiting time, which is crucial for making timely decisions regarding employment or treatment.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sterling, MI

Implementing hair follicle tests in Sterling, MI supports compliance with workplace policies and boosts safety, ensuring a drug-free environment. This testing method offers employers reassurance, reducing legal risks associated with workplace substance abuse.

Through reliable testing, companies can maintain a healthy workforce, fortifying their reputations and securing compliance with legal standards, helping safeguard organizational interests.

Drug Testing Near Sterling, MI

Eastpointe, MI

Royal Oak, MI

Rochester Hills, MI

Mount Clemens, MI

Roseville, MI

Center Line, MI

Clawson, MI

Madison Heights, MI

Michigan Center, MI

Troy, MI

Warren, MI

Fraser, MI

Cady, MI

Utica, MI

Sterling Heights, MI

What's New In Hair Follicle Drug Testing according to the Hair Drug Testing Experts

With its multidisciplinary nature, hair testing brings together researchers, scientists, and experts from various domains to develop innovative techniques, explore new methodologies, and address emerging concerns, responding to the ever-evolving challenges of drug abuse, therapeutic drug monitoring, and environmental exposures to pollutants.

The joint meeting of the Society of Hair Testing (SoHT) and the Italian Group of Forensic Toxicologists (GTFI) was organized in Verona, June 8–10, 2022, and hosted by the Legal Medicine team of the Verona University Hospital, directed by Franco Tagliaro together with Federica Bortolotti and Rossella Gottardo.

It served as a prominent platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, facilitating groundbreaking advancements in hair testing and analysis. In this special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, we aim to showcase the remarkable manuscripts presented at this significant event, shedding light on the latest research and highlighting the future directions in this field.

Novel Analytical Techniques: The Verona meeting witnessed the unveiling of cutting-edge analytical techniques, offering enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and accuracy for drug testing. Remarkable advancements in sample preparation, detection, and identification of drug compounds have been presented. The manuscripts in this section presented novel approaches, such as multianalyte methods and on-line preparation which can enable rapid analysis and improve thorough forensic investigations.

Biomarkers and Pharmacokinetics: The identification and validation of reliable biomarkers and pharmacokinetic studies are fundamental aspects of drug testing and analysis. The impact of hair treatments on the oxidation/decomposition of drugs in hair was also explored, as the long-term fate of drugs incorporated in the keratin matrix. Furthermore, the SoHT meeting in Verona featured research on the identification and quantification of alcohol abuse biomarkers, their stability, and their correlation with exposure and other biomarkers.

Forensic Applications and Interpretation: One of the vital objectives of hair testing is its application in forensic investigations and legal proceedings. The SoHT meeting in Verona emphasized the significance of rigorous interpretation of analytical results and the need for standardized protocols. Manuscripts in this section present advancements in forensic toxicology, and have explored the challenges posed by emerging designer drugs and strategies to combat their proliferation. The pitfalls encountered when the exogenous/endogenous nature of a substance is questioned were presented and discussed. The special issue presents also manuscripts that delve into the ethical implications of drug testing in drug facilitated sexual assaults.

Clinical Applications of hair testing are witnessed by the insight on environmental tobacco smoke exposure, assessed by hair analysis in a population of students and the study of in utero-exposure to drugs of abuse through neonatal hair analysis. Exposure to drugs was also important in cases of child abuse/neglect, when the clinical purpose of hair testing merge with its forensic applications.

The legal framework surrounding hair testing and the achievement of guidelines to ensure fairness, accuracy, and confidentiality in drug testing practices have also been discussed,and the SoHT consensus on general hair testing and testing for drugs of abuse was presented at the meeting and published as a Letter to the Editor.

In conclusion, the special issue of Drug Testing and Analysis, featuring manuscripts from the SoHT–GTFI meeting in Verona 2022, reflects the remarkable advancements achieved in this field. The manuscripts provide valuable insights into novel analytical techniques, biomarkers, pharmacokinetics, forensic applications, and ethical considerations. As we embrace these advancements, we pave the way for a safer, healthier society, where drug testing and analysis serve as powerful tools in protecting public health and maintaining integrity in various sectors. The research presented in this special issue will undoubtedly shape the future of drug testing and analysis, fostering collaboration and inspiring further innovation in this crucial area of scientific inquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Customer Reviews