Heavy Metals Panel 4, Whole Blood
Also known as: HY MET B4
Use
The Heavy Metals Panel 4, Whole Blood test is useful in assessing recent exposure to arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead. It provides information about the levels of heavy metals in the blood, which can be critical for diagnosing and managing exposure to these toxic elements. This test is particularly relevant for monitoring acute exposure and may also assist in evaluating occupational exposure when considering specific metals like lead and cadmium separately.
Special Instructions
Patients should refrain from consuming nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, nonessential over-the-counter medications, shellfish, and seafood for 48 to 72 hours, as they can introduce interfering substances that may affect the test results. Use only royal blue (K2EDTA) or royal blue (NaHep) collection tubes. Transport whole blood at room temperature or refrigerated.
Limitations
The test is primarily for detecting recent exposure to heavy metals; it is not suitable for assessing chronic exposure, for which urine testing may be more appropriate. Samples must be collected in trace element-free tubes to prevent contamination. Mercury is volatile, and its concentration may decrease over time, necessitating careful handling and rapid processing. The performance of the test was determined by ARUP Laboratories and is intended for clinical purposes without FDA clearance.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 77307-7
- 5583-0
- 5685-3
- 5609-3
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
3 or 6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Royal blue (K2EDTA) or royal blue (NaHep)
Patient Preparation
Encourage discontinuation of certain medications and dietary restrictions as prescribed.
Storage Instructions
Transport at room temperature or refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Collection in non-royal blue tubes, or clotted specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |