Cadmium, Blood
Use
This test is useful for detecting exposure to cadmium, a toxic heavy metal. Cadmium exposure primarily affects the kidneys and can lead to kidney dysfunction with proteinuria over years of exposure. It is most commonly encountered through occupational hazards such as spray painting with organic-based paints without proper respiratory protection. Additionally, tobacco smoke is a common source of cadmium exposure. Monitoring blood cadmium levels can assist in assessing acute and chronic exposure, aiding in the diagnosis and management of individuals at risk for cadmium toxicity.
Special Instructions
The specimen container must not be opened or used for any other testing before shipping. Prior to specimen collection, patients should avoid exposure to gadolinium or iodine contrast media for 96 hours as these can interfere with the test results. Use metal-free EDTA tubes for collection and ensure that the whole blood specimen is sent in the original collection tube without aliquoting.
Limitations
This test has limitations including potential interference from high concentrations of gadolinium and iodine, which are components of contrast media. Since the test is highly sensitive to contamination, proper collection and handling procedures must be strictly followed to avoid inaccurate results. The test is not FDA cleared or approved; however, it is performed in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements, ensuring accuracy and reliability within these constraints.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5609-3
- 5609-3
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Royal blue-top BD Vacutainer with EDTA blood collection tube
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original collection tube. Do not aliquot. Refer to the Metals Analysis Specimen Collection and Transport document for detailed instructions.
Patient Preparation
Avoid specimen collection for 96 hours if gadolinium or iodine contrast media has been administered.
Causes for Rejection
None specified other than handling errors and contamination considerations.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |