Alcohol CDT

This test measures the level of Carbohydrate-deficient Transferrin (CDT) in the blood. Transferrin is a protein which helps carry iron through the blood. There are various types of Transferrin and CDT is a type commonly found in people who consume significant quantities of alcohol. Elevated CDT levels are typically indicative of heavy alcohol consumption during the last 2-4 weeks. While the definition of heavy alcohol use may vary from person to person it is typically defined as 4-5 drinks or more per day. CDT levels may take several days of alcohol ingestion to increase and typically return to normal after 2-4 weeks of little to no alcohol consumption. CDT testing is typically used to identify people at risk for alcoholism or alcohol abuse.

A CDT test is typically ordered when a person is suspected of chronically abusing alcohol. It can also be ordered for people in alcohol treatment programs to monitor their progress. This test is not intended to detect occasional or light alcohol consumption. An ETG Alcohol test may be more effective at detecting alcohol use in the past 1-3 days.

Turnaround for this test is typically 3-6 business days.