Pantox Laboratory Test

The Pantox screen is a blood test, which measures lipid-soluble (i.e., fat-soluble) anti-oxidants and water-soluble anti-oxidants. This information is very helpful for a variety of medical conditions. Specifically, having adequate levels of anti-oxidants is thought to slow the aging process. In addition, clinical research has clearly demonstrated that adequate nutritional status, specifically as it relates to anti-oxidant availability and adequacy, has a preventive effect in many types of cancers, heart disease, and other types of chronic illnesses.

The Pantox test will measure co-enzyme Q10, alpha-tocopherol (or vitamin E), gamma-tocopherol (a lesser-known cousin of alpha-tocopherol). In recent clinical trials, gamma-tocopherol has been shown to have significant preventive activity relating to chronic illness.

The test will also measure carotenoids, including beta-carotene. In addition, the levels of lycopene and alpha carotene will be assessed. All of the carotenoids, of which there are several, have strong anti-oxidant activity, and, as noted above, are thought to play a preventive role in the prevention of chronic illness.

Levels of vitamin A will also be measured. In the body, vitamin A is usually made from beta-carotene and other types of carotenoids that are present in the diet. Understanding the efficiency of the conversion of beta-carotene to vitamin A is important. It is for this reason that levels of vitamin A are an included measurement in the Pantox screen.

Water-soluble anti-oxidants, including vitamin C, uric acid, albumin, glucose, and bilirubin will also be measured. From this overall assessment, we will be able to better understand an individual's anti-oxidant protective mechanisms. The lipoprotein status will also be measured, including cholesterol, apolipoprotein-B, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. Also included will be an assessment of liver enzymes, fasting insulin levels, and serum iron balance.

Your test results will be reviewed at your follow-up visit. It generally takes 2-2½ weeks to receive the results of the test, after the laboratory samples are drawn. If you have any questions during the interim, please do not hesitate to contact the office.

Dale Guyer, M.D.