Trans-3-Hydroxycotinine
Measures nicotine metabolites in serum or plasma to detect recent tobacco smoke exposure.
Why This Biomarker Matters
This test objectively confirms tobacco exposure, which is crucial for assessing health risks and monitoring smoking cessation efforts. Tobacco use significantly increases risk of heart disease, cancer, and lung disease.
Overview
Trans-3-hydroxycotinine is a metabolite of nicotine, the addictive substance in tobacco. This urine test detects tobacco smoke exposure by measuring cotinine breakdown products, providing a more accurate picture of recent nicotine use than blood tests. It's used to assess tobacco exposure in smokers, secondhand smoke exposure, and to monitor compliance with smoking cessation programs. The test can detect exposure for several days after tobacco use.
Research & Evidence
2 publications
Research data from MEDLINE/PubMed · 2 articles
Technical Information (LOINC Codes)
Standardized laboratory codes for this biomarker
35140-3Primary33916-878887-7Available Lab Tests
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