Mercury, Nails

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC82817Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID HGNACPT Code 83825

Clinical Use

Use

Detecting mercury exposure in nail specimens. Mercury binds to keratin in nails, and the concentration in nails correlates with severity of clinical symptoms, providing a non-invasive biomarker of exposure. Reference values: for individuals aged ≥16 years, levels should be less than 1.0 mcg/g; levels above this may indicate elevated exposure. Useful in assessing environmental or occupational mercury exposure. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/89856?utm_source=openai))

Special Instructions

Library of PDFs including pertinent information and forms related to the test (e.g., “Collecting Hair and Nails for Metals Testing”). Requires indicating source of nails (fingernails or toenails). Supplies: Hair and Nails Collection Kit (T565). Collection instructions include taking clippings from all 10 fingernails or toenails and preparing/transporting per kit instructions. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/89856?utm_source=openai))

Limitations

Minimum sample volume is 0.05 g, sufficient for a single attempt; clinically preferred volume is 0.2 g collected from all ten nails. Specimen suitability is evaluated upon receipt; any sample may be rejected if inappropriate. Reference values are not established in individuals under 16 years, limiting interpretation in pediatric populations. ([mayocliniclabs.com](https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/89856?utm_source=openai))

Test Details