Lead, Nails

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC51090Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID PBNACPT Code 83655

Clinical Use

Use

Nail analysis of lead can be used to corroborate blood analysis and is useful for detecting lead exposure using nail specimens. Interpretation should consider that nail lead content above 10.0 mcg/g may suggest significant exposure, although external contamination is possible. Results must be interpreted alongside the clinical scenario, symptoms, physical findings, and other diagnostic results. Reference values are < 4.0 mcg/g of nails across all ages. Nails are subject to potential environmental contamination and blood lead analysis has the strongest correlation with toxicity.([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/89857?utm_source=openai))

Special Instructions

Use Hair and Nails Collection Kit (T565). Indicate source of nails (fingernails or toenails). Provide 0.2 g of fingernails or toenails clipped from all 10 nails. If insufficient, minimum is 0.05 g. Follow instructions in "Collecting Hair and Nails for Metals Testing".([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/89857?utm_source=openai))

Limitations

Nails may be contaminated externally with environmental lead. Blood lead analysis correlates more strongly with toxicity. Nail values should be interpreted in a broader clinical context including symptoms, physical findings, and other diagnostic results.([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/Overview/89857?utm_source=openai))

Test Details