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Findings of drugs and other substances, not normally found in blood Save


ICD-10 code: R78

Chapter: Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings, not elsewhere classified

Findings of Drugs and Other Substances Not Normally Found in Blood

Drug tests are commonly used to detect the presence of various drugs in the blood. These tests are usually performed during employment or athletic screening processes, and can also be used to monitor patients undergoing treatment for drug addiction. In some cases, drug tests may also reveal the presence of substances that are not normally found in the blood.

These substances can be the result of a variety of factors, including accidental exposure, environmental contamination, or intentional ingestion. Some examples of these substances include:

  1. Environmental pollutants. Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins in the environment can result in the presence of these substances in the blood.
  2. Prescription medications. Some prescription medications can cause unexpected results on drug tests, particularly if they are used in combination with other medications or substances.
  3. Over-the-counter medications. Certain over-the-counter medications, such as cough syrups or allergy medications, can contain substances that may trigger a positive drug test result.
  4. Dietary supplements. Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients that can result in a positive drug test result, particularly if they are taken in large quantities or for extended periods of time.

These findings can be concerning, as they may lead to false positive results on drug tests. False positives can have serious consequences for individuals who rely on accurate drug testing for employment or athletic eligibility. It is important to be aware of the substances that may cause false positives on drug tests and to take steps to avoid exposure to these substances whenever possible.

If you receive a positive drug test result and believe that the finding may be the result of a substance not normally found in your blood, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider or the testing facility to discuss the possibility of retesting or further investigation. By taking steps to avoid exposure to these substances and being aware of the potential sources of false positives on drug tests, you can help ensure that your drug test results are accurate and reliable.