Aluminum, Serum
Also known as: AL S
Use
This test is the preferred option for routine aluminum screening and may be useful in assessing aluminum toxicity due to dialysis. While serum aluminum levels may provide an indication of overload, urine testing is more appropriate for evaluating chronic exposure. Elevated serum levels over 50.0 µg/L suggest aluminum overload and potential toxicity.
Special Instructions
Patients should discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications upon their physician's advice to avoid introducing interfering substances. Specimens must be separated from the cells within two hours of collection and should be transferred into the ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube without using phrases or needles.
Limitations
Elevated serum aluminum results may be attributed to contamination arising from skin contact or noncertified metal-free tubes. In such cases, re-collection of the specimen in a certified metal-free tube is recommended for confirmation. The test may not detect chronic exposure as effectively as urine testing. Stability of trace element values is maintained indefinitely if stored in the appropriate container.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5574-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Trace Element-Free Transport Tube (ARUP supply #43116)
Collection Instructions
Collect in Royal Blue (No Additive) tube. Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Do not use syringes or needles during the transfer of the sample.
Patient Preparation
Patient should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications upon their physician's advice.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature. Also acceptable: Refrigerated or frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma. Specimens that are not separated from the red cells or clot within 2 hours. Specimens collected in containers other than specified. Specimens transported in containers other than specified.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |