Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a formidable instrument for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an enduring record of alcohol and drug use by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of a growing hair strand. When positioned near the scalp, a hair sample can reveal a detection period of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and conveniently transported.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional panels, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample size of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This step involves confirming proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplemental data entry absent from an e-chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-efficient means to rule out drug usage on most samples, any positive screen mandates confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples rendering positive results in Screening require a subsequent confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive result during the Screening phase, additional hair is sourced from the original specimen for Extraction preparation. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Verification of positive screening outcomes is executed by GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Every sample with presumptive positive results undergoes a cleansing process prior to confirmation as warranted. The entire laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation in adherence with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the evaluation examines the hair strand, rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Viola, TN
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, hair testing shines with its superior detection accuracy and reliability. The extended detection window and tamper-resistant nature offer excellent advantages.
Extended Detection Window in Viola, TN
Hair follicle testing provides an extensive detection period of up to 90 days, offering employers a thorough insight into an individual's substance history. This comprehensive view supports informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Viola, TN
Hair follicle drug tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration, delivering results that are both reliable and undeniable.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Viola, TN
Experience the ease of our nationwide network of testing centers, providing quick, easy access to testing services in every corner, including Viola, TN.
Simple, Confidential Process in Viola, TN
The process for ordering, undergoing, and receiving hair follicle test results is designed to be straightforward and private, addressing any privacy or usability concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Viola, TN
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times provide excellent value, ensuring peace of mind for businesses, regardless of their size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Viola, TN
Hair follicle drug testing offers top-notch speed and precision, providing highly accurate detection of substance use. The reliable nature of this testing method makes it ideal for those seeking dependable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Viola, TN
Implementing hair follicle testing guarantees compliance with workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks and promoting a safer work environment.
