Mercury, Nails
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
Not provided.
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))
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
Mercury
Analyte
LOINC Codes
- 8204-0 - Mercury Nail-mCnt
- 8204-0 - Mercury Nail-mCnt
- 31208-2 - Specimen source
Result Turnaround Time
2-14 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue
Volume
0.2 g (preferred), minimum 0.05 g
Minimum Volume
0.05 g
Container
Hair and Nails Collection Kit (T565)
Collection Instructions
Clippings from all 10 fingernails or toenails; prepare and transport per kit instructions or “Collecting Hair and Nails for Metals Testing”
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Ambient (preferred) |
| Refrigerated | Refrigerated acceptable |
| Frozen | Frozen acceptable |