Nickel, Serum
Also known as: NICKEL
Use
Serum nickel testing is intended to detect potentially toxic exposure. Elevated results may be due to skin or collection-related contamination, including use of a noncertified metal-free collection/transport tube. If contamination concerns exist due to elevated levels of serum nickel, confirmation with a second specimen collected in a certified metal-free tube is recommended. This test can be informative in cases of suspected toxic exposure, though Nickel, Urine is preferred for determining exposure levels.
Special Instructions
Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and nonessential over-the-counter medications (upon the advice of their physician).
Limitations
Measurement of nickel is not recommended in asymptomatic individuals or those with a low likelihood of exposure. Elevated results could be due to contamination from skin or noncertified metal-free tubes. Tests not cleared by FDA but performed in CLIA certified labs for clinical purposes.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5702-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 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
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Do not use utensils (i.e., syringes, needles) during the transfer of the sample. Pour directly into the transport tube avoiding transfer of the cellular components of blood.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma. Specimens not separated from clot within 2 hours. Separator tubes or royal blue (EDTA). Specimens transported in tubes other than specified. Hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Indefinitely |
| Refrigerated | Indefinitely |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |