Nickel, Serum
Use
This test is useful for confirming an elevated urinary nickel concentration. It is not intended for investigating nickel hypersensitivity. Nickel is a common element with no known role in human physiology, but significant exposure can cause health issues such as allergic reactions, chronic bronchitis, reduced lung function, and certain cancers. Serum nickel concentrations can be used to verify elevated urine nickel levels, particularly in occupational exposure scenarios.
Special Instructions
Urine is the preferred specimen type for determining nickel exposure and potential toxicity. High concentrations of gadolinium and iodine may interfere with the test's methodology. If gadolinium- or iodine-containing contrast media have been administered, delay specimen collection for 96 hours.
Limitations
This test cannot identify the specific nickel compound responsible for exposure, such as nickel sulfate. Special collection containers and ultraclean collection and handling procedures are necessary to avoid incidental and misleading elevated serum nickel results. Increased serum nickel findings can result from contamination without actual nickel exposure.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5702-6
- 5702-6
Result Turnaround Time
2-8 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.55 mL
Minimum Volume
0.35 mL
Container
7-mL Mayo metal-free, screw-capped, vial
Collection Instructions
Allow specimen to clot for 30 minutes; then centrifuge to separate serum from the cellular fraction. Carefully pour into Mayo metal-free, screw-capped vial. Do not insert pipet or ream with a wooden stick.
Patient Preparation
Avoid specimen collection for 96 hours if gadolinium or iodine contrast media were administered.
Causes for Rejection
Improper collection without Mayo metal-free container and ultraclean procedures.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |