Chromium, Blood
Use
The Chromium, Blood test is useful for monitoring exposure to chromium by measuring the levels of chromium in whole blood specimens. This test is particularly significant for patients with metallic prosthetic implants, as it helps in monitoring metallic implant wear. Exposure to chromium can occur in industrial settings and from consumer products containing chromium. Use of this test can assist in evaluating the chromium load to which an individual is subjected, especially for patients with metal-on-metal hip implants, where regular monitoring of chromium concentrations in the blood is recommended.
Special Instructions
High concentrations of gadolinium and iodine can interfere with mass spectrometry-based tests. Therefore, a specimen should not be collected for 96 hours after administering gadolinium- or iodine-containing contrast media. The blood sample must be collected in a metal-free EDTA tube and must not be opened or used for other testing before shipping.
Limitations
The presence of chromium in the environment at significantly higher concentrations than found in biological tissues poses a risk of contamination. Increased blood chromium levels could be due to external contamination. Therefore, metal-free blood collection procedures must be rigorously followed to avoid false-positive results. Additionally, a single elevated blood chromium level should not be used to predict prosthetic wear or failure in the absence of corroborative clinical information.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5619-2
- 5619-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1.0 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Royal blue-top BD vacutainer with EDTA blood collection tube
Collection Instructions
Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot. See Metals Analysis Specimen Collection and Transport for complete instructions.
Patient Preparation
A specimen should not be collected for 96 hours if gadolinium- or iodine-containing contrast media have been administered.
Causes for Rejection
Microtainer
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |