Mercury, Whole Blood
Use
Monitor exposure to mercury
Special Instructions
Sampling for industrial exposure monitoring should occur at the end of the shift at the end of the work week, following four or five consecutive days of exposure. This timing correlates with the accumulation of certain metals in the body, as they have longer half-lives. It is essential to use the correct container, a royal blue-top (EDTA) tube, and to avoid clotted specimens.
Limitations
Blood mercury levels may be elevated due to inorganic mercury or organic mercury compounds like ethylmercury and methylmercury. These organic compounds are not typically used industrially but are more toxic than inorganic mercury. While the test can indicate exposure, it cannot differentiate between different types of mercury compounds or predict specific symptoms. The test results should be interpreted along with additional tests and patient history for accurate assessment and management.
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5685-3
- 5685-3
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.6 mL
Container
Royal blue-top (EDTA) tube; submit original tube.
Collection Instructions
Sampling time is end of shift at the end of the work week for industrial exposure monitoring.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature or refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Clotted specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |