Carbohydrate-deficient Transferrin (CDT)

This test measures the level of Carbohydrate-deficient Transferrin (CDT) in the blood and may be used to detect heavy ethanol (alcohol) consumption.

Test results may take 3-5 business days.

Available Laboratories: LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics

$219

$575

Sample Results

Carbohydrate-deficient Transferrin (CDT)

$575

$219

Sample Results

Test Details

Transferrin is a protein found in the serum that carries iron through the bloodstream to the bone marrow, liver and spleen. There are numerous types of transferrin with the most common form having four sialic acid chains, known as tetrasialotransferrin. In individuals who consume large quantities of alcohol, the amount of transferrin with zero, one or two sialic acid chains increases, known as CDT. This is what is then measured in the bloodstream to be used as markers of alcohol abuse. This test may also be used to monitor treatment in individuals with alcohol abuse and to monitor for a possible relapse.

This test is not intended to detect occasional or light alcohol consumption. Elevated CDT levels are typically indicative of heavy alcohol consumption during the last 2-4 weeks. An ETG Alcohol test may be more effective at detecting alcohol use in the past 1-3 days.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kurt Kloss, MD
Last Reviewed Date: Oct 24, 2019

1. Purchase Tests

Choose the test you want (be sure to pick the laboratory you want to use).

Pay by credit card or PayPal^®.

You pay directly and we do not bill your insurance.

(Note: to preserve lowest possible per test pricing, a single $10.00 lab fee is applied to one or more blood tests. You will not incur any additional charges at the lab.)

2. Visit a Lab

After purchasing your testing you will receive an email with your lab requisition. Bring this form to the laboratory.

NOTE: Be sure to visit the appropriate laboratory!

If you choose LabCorp only visit a Labcorp location.
If you choose Quest Diagnostics only visit a Quest location!

Find Your Lab Location.

No appointment is needed, but making one can minimize your wait time.
Click here for HOURS & APPOINTMENTS

If you have selected the option to have an At Home Test Kit delivered to you, you will receive your test kit in the mail within 5 to 7 business days. (Not all tests are available as At Home Test Kits.)

3. Get Results

We’ll email you when your results are ready. Sign into your account to view and download your result reports.

Certain result values may prompt a phone call from our ordering provider to ensure the patient is aware of their result.

Sample Type

Blood

Prepare For Your Test

No special prep required.

Also Known As

No other names specified