Synonyms: alpha-tocopherol
Clinical significance
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat-soluble vitamin normally obtained from food; the main sources are green vegetables and oils (seed, olive and wheat germ oils) and, to a lesser extent, milk and eggs. It is absorbed in the small intestine, which requires bile salts; it is carried by beta-lipoproteins and then stored in the liver. Vitamin E has powerful antioxidant activity that protects many cell components from oxidative stress and cell ageing. It seems to stimulate the immune defences and to promote sperm production. Deficiency can occur because of low intake (rare), as a result of intestinal malabsorption or in premature babies.
Clinical indications
Nutritional deficiency or deficiency secondary to malabsorption (coeliac disease, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic disease, regional enteritis, abetalipoproteinaemia, chronic cholestasis), premature babies.
Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.
Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed. You must have been standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
Colestyramine, alcohol and phenytoin lower its concentration.