Salicylates

This test is used to detect a high level of salicylate in the blood. It may be used to help diagnose an overdose (salicylate poisoning) or to monitor a person who takes a prescription-strength salicylate. The salicylate screening test may be used to screen for the presence of salicylate in urine.

If a person presents with symptoms that suggest aspirin or other salicylate poisoning, then a salicylate test may be ordered to help detect an overdose. If a healthcare practitioner is not sure what substance(s) a person may have ingested, then a salicylate test may be ordered along with other tests associated with emergency and overdose drug testing. The specific tests ordered will depend upon the person’s symptoms and clinical signs.

Normal therapeutic blood concentrations of aspirin and other salicylates depend upon what the drug is being used for, and blood levels must be interpreted in conjunction with a person’s medical history and clinical signs and symptoms. Lower blood levels are sufficient for pain relief and to lower risk of blood clots, but higher levels may be required for managing inflammation in rheumatic conditions such as arthritis. At these higher levels, some side effects may become apparent.

The severity of signs and symptoms, and at what dose they emerge, depends upon the individual. Symptoms may be seen with blood levels that are generally considered to be therapeutic in inflammatory conditions, and they will tend to appear in many people at levels of about 10-30 mg/dL. In general, the severity of salicylate toxicity increases with increasing concentrations.

  • Sample of blood serum
  • We perform the test daily