Test library
Phencyclidine Blood Screen
This blood test screens for phencyclidine, also known as PCP, using an immunoassay. Presumptive positive results can be confirmed with a more specific mass spectrometry method.
Order PCP (Phencyclidine) Drug Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order PCP (Phencyclidine) Drug Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The PCP Blood Test is a laboratory screen that looks for phencyclidine, a dissociative drug also known as PCP, in a blood sample. Screening is usually performed with an immunoassay, a method that detects the drug or related compounds by their reaction with specific antibodies. Because screening tests can produce presumptive results, a positive screen is often followed by a more precise confirmation method when clinically required.
What this test measures
Phencyclidine is a synthetic compound that affects the central nervous system and has historically been used as an anesthetic and abused as a recreational drug. Laboratory screening detects the presence of the drug in blood, where detection windows tend to be shorter than in urine. The immunoassay gives a rapid initial answer, and the result is reported as positive or negative relative to the laboratory's cutoff.
When a screen is positive, the laboratory can perform confirmation using a technique such as liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry or gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Confirmation identifies the specific compound and can provide a concentration. Some medications and other substances can interfere with immunoassays, which is one reason confirmation is used when a result matters.
This test may be ordered as part of a clinical evaluation or another authorized testing process, and it should be requested through an appropriate healthcare or testing provider. Results are interpreted in context by the ordering professional. The test is not intended for self-directed medical decision making.
- Phencyclidine (PCP) immunoassay screen
- Qualitative screen result relative to the laboratory cutoff
- Confirmatory phencyclidine testing by mass spectrometry when indicated
- Phencyclidine concentration when confirmation is performed
- Specimen integrity checks performed by the laboratory
- Assay cutoff concentration used for screening
Why people order this test
- Screen for phencyclidine exposure in a clinical or authorized testing setting
- Confirm a presumptive positive screen with a specific method
- Support a professional evaluation of unexpected symptoms
- Add laboratory information to an authorized drug testing process
- Document the presence of PCP when confirmation is requested
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this test. A blood sample is collected at the lab, and normal meals beforehand are generally fine. Inform the laboratory of any medications you take, because some substances can interfere with immunoassay screening.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. A negative screen indicates that phencyclidine was not detected at the laboratory's cutoff, while a presumptive positive screen should be confirmed with a specific method before conclusions are drawn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is PCP?
PCP stands for phencyclidine, a synthetic dissociative drug. It has a history of medical use as an anesthetic and is also encountered as a substance of abuse.
How long can PCP be detected in blood?
Detection windows vary with the amount used, individual metabolism, and the laboratory's cutoff. Blood generally offers a shorter window than urine, so a negative blood result does not always rule out earlier exposure.
Why is a confirmation test needed?
Immunoassays are screening methods and can react to substances other than PCP. Mass spectrometry confirmation identifies the specific compound and reduces the chance of a false positive.
Can prescription medications affect the screen?
Some medications and compounds can interfere with immunoassay screens. Tell the laboratory and the ordering provider about your medications so results can be interpreted correctly.
Is this test the same as a urine PCP test?
No. This test uses a blood sample and generally has a shorter detection window. A urine test is a separate option that may be ordered for different reasons.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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