Core 5-Panel

The Core 5-Panel measures markers associated with five substances that are frequently included in screening panels. CDT (Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin) is a blood-based marker that may reflect alcohol consumption patterns over a period of approximately two to four weeks. The urine-based portion of the panel screens for metabolites of cocaine, ketamine, amphetamines, and 3-MMC, each with a detection window of approximately two to four days.

By combining both sample types, this panel provides data on both longer-term consumption patterns (via CDT) and more recent substance use (via urine metabolites).

This test may be relevant for:

• Individuals who wish to gain insight into their own substance use patterns
• People preparing for a professional or personal situation where testing may be expected
• Anyone who wants to verify the presence or absence of specific substances for their own information

The panel includes the following substances:

• CDT (Carbohydrate-Deficient Transferrin): measured in blood, expressed as a percentage. CDT levels may rise after sustained alcohol consumption over approximately two to four weeks.
• Cocaine metabolite (benzoylecgonine): measured in urine. May be detectable for approximately two to four days after use, though this can vary.
• Ketamine: measured in urine. Ketamine and its metabolites (primarily norketamine) may be detectable for approximately two to four days.
• Amphetamines: measured in urine. Typically detectable for approximately two to four days after use.
• 3-MMC: measured in urine. May be detectable for approximately two to four days.

The results indicate whether a substance or its metabolite was detected above the laboratory's reporting threshold. A positive result suggests that the substance may have been present in the body within the relevant detection window. A negative result indicates that the substance was not detected above the threshold at the time of sample collection.

Screening results are not the same as a confirmed diagnosis. If a substance is detected, confirmation testing using a more specific analytical method may be performed to verify the finding.

This panel requires two types of samples, both collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt):

• A blood draw for CDT analysis
• A urine sample (mid-stream) for substance metabolite screening

The collection is carried out by trained personnel and typically takes only a few minutes.

This test may be considered in various situations, including:

• When personal insight into substance use patterns is desired
• When documentation of a substance screening is needed for professional or administrative purposes
• When someone wishes to monitor their own patterns over time

Each substance is reported as either detected or not detected. For CDT, the result is expressed as a percentage, with elevated values potentially indicating sustained alcohol consumption over the preceding weeks.

Results should be interpreted in the context of individual circumstances and, where appropriate, discussed with a healthcare provider. Factors such as hydration, metabolism, and timing relative to last use may influence results.

No specific preparation is required for the blood draw. For the urine sample, collect a mid-stream sample at the sample point. It is advisable to hydrate normally beforehand; over-hydration may dilute the sample and could affect the reliability of the results.

Results are typically available within a few working days. The report includes a clear overview of each substance tested, along with the outcome.

If a substance is detected in the initial screening, confirmation testing may be performed using a more specific laboratory method to verify the result. The final report provides the confirmed findings. If you have questions about your results, a healthcare provider can help place them in context.