Barium, Serum
Use
The Barium, Serum test measures the barium levels in the blood to check for exposure, possible toxicity, or to monitor a barium treatment. Barium is a silvery-white metal element that is not common in the natural environment but can be used in industrial settings, such as in drilling fluids and X-ray imaging. Elevated barium levels in the body can cause a range of symptoms and health issues, making this test important for occupational health and safety in relevant industries.
Special Instructions
The test requires submission of either plasma or serum collected in metal-free containers to avoid contamination of the sample with metals which can interfere with the accuracy of the test results. It's crucial to follow the specimen collection and handling instructions carefully to maintain sample integrity.
Limitations
The test cannot differentiate between different forms or sources of barium. Hemolysis, lipemia, and icterus do not interfere with the test results. However, contamination by metals during collection or analysis can affect accuracy. Analytical specificity is limited to barium detection; related elements or compounds must be tested with separate assays. Test results must be interpreted in the context of the clinical scenario and potential exposure history.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5589-7
- 5589-7
Result Turnaround Time
3-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
EDTA metal-free royal blue-top tube
Collection Instructions
Draw blood in a EDTA metal-free royal blue-top tube(s), spin down and send 2 mL metal-free EDTA plasma refrigerated in a plastic vial.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |