Phosphatidylethanol

What Does This Test Check?

The PEth test measures phosphatidylethanol, a direct marker of alcohol consumption that forms in red blood cells when you drink. Because it tracks intake over the prior weeks, it gives a more honest picture of alcohol use than a single drinking diary or a short-lived liver test.

Medichecks offers the Phosphatidylethanol test for 199 pounds as a home blood test. This is a specialised marker, which is why the price sits well above standard general health panels.

A raised PEth result indicates recent regular alcohol consumption and may support concerns about drinking levels, while a low reading reflects little intake. It does not by itself diagnose alcohol dependence or liver damage. If you or your doctor are concerned about alcohol, use the result to start an honest conversation with your GP.