Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The examination of hair is recognized as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a record of alcohol and drug usage over an extended period by embedding biomarkers in the hair strand as it grows. When taken from the area close to the scalp, hair can offer an approximate detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and other substances. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches, encompassing about 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the hair sample. If hair from the scalp is not obtainable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be utilized instead. When mentioning head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other forms, like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The four key phases in the laboratory processing of drug test results are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the introductory handling of a sample into the laboratory’s framework. This involves ensuring the sample was securely sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a sequential LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data entry requirements not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening serves as a cost-efficient method for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive result needs further confirmation to be acceptable in legal contexts. Samples flagged as potentially positive during Screening must undergo additional confirmation.
For specimens marked as potentially positive during the Screening phase, more hair is drawn from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging technique to conduct.
Validation of any positive results from screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are initially positive are washed before confirmation where necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny as per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Memphis, TN
When compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing demonstrates superior detection accuracy and reliability. It allows for a more comprehensive assessment of an individual’s substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Memphis, TN
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection period of up to 90 days, giving employers an in-depth view of an individual's substance use history. This extensive window provides a clearer picture of long-term use habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Memphis, TN
Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample tampering. This method ensures reliable results that can’t be easily manipulated, bringing peace of mind to those relying on its accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Memphis, TN
Our network of testing centers across the nation ensures quick and hassle-free access to drug testing services, providing both convenience and efficiency for all individuals.
Simple, Confidential Process in Memphis, TN
The procedure for ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential, ensuring user privacy and ease of handling.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Memphis, TN
We offer competitive pricing configurations with rapid result turnaround times, delivering great value and assurance to companies, large and small.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Memphis, TN
Hair follicle drug tests offer exceptional precision and speed, providing results that accurately detect substance use. This high accuracy makes them superior in pinpointing drug use compared to other methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Memphis, TN
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks, and enhancing safety across the organization.
