Chromium, Serum
Use
The Chromium, Serum test is useful for screening individuals for occupational exposure to chromium and monitoring wear of metallic prosthetic implants. Hexavalent chromium (Cr[+6]) is used in industry, with Cr[+6] being a known carcinogen. Serum Cr concentrations are used to indicate exposure and potential prosthetic device wear, although corroborating clinical information is necessary for accurate interpretation.
Special Instructions
Patient preparation is critical as high concentrations of gadolinium and iodine can interfere with the test. If contrast media containing these elements has been administered, collection should be delayed by 96 hours. Proper, metal-free collection techniques must be used to avoid external contamination.
Limitations
Increased serum chromium concentrations can reflect prosthetic wear, but cannot independently predict prosthesis wear or failure without clinical corroboration. Test performance depends on strict adherence to the correct specimen collection protocols and storage in a metal-free environment. Inappropriate test selection and improper handling can lead to diagnostic inaccuracies.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5622-6
- 5622-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
7-mL Mayo metal-free, screw-capped, polypropylene vial
Collection Instructions
Use a metal-free collection tube. After collection, serum should be aliquoted into a metal-free vial to avoid contamination.
Patient Preparation
Do not collect specimens for 96 hours after administration of gadolinium- or iodine-containing contrast media.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected using an anticoagulant, as trace amounts of chromium are present in anticoagulants.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 28 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |