Titanium, Serum
Use
This test is useful for monitoring metallic prosthetic implant wear. Titanium is often used in devices such as artificial joints and prosthetic implants, and its presence in serum can indicate whether implant breakdown is occurring. An increase in titanium levels may be indicative of device wear but is not a direct measure of toxicity.
Special Instructions
It is essential to avoid specimen contamination by using metal-free collection procedures to prevent falsely increased results. Collection site contamination and improper handling must be avoided. High concentrations of gadolinium and iodine can interfere with the test, so specimens should not be collected within 96 hours of administration of contrast media containing these elements.
Limitations
Titanium concentrations are not direct indicators of toxicity but can be indicative of implant wear. The test is sensitive to contamination from the collection site and devices, necessitating careful collection using metal-free tubes and containers. Results can be impacted by gadolinium and iodine contrast media if collected within 96 hours of their use.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 8244-6
- 8244-6
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 Metal-free, screw-capped, polypropylene vial
Collection Instructions
Allow specimen to clot for 30 minutes; then centrifuge to separate serum. Pour serum into a metal-free vial, avoiding cellular components. Do not use a pipet or wooden stick for transfer.
Patient Preparation
Avoid specimen collection within 96 hours of gadolinium or iodine contrast media administration.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen contamination must be avoided; see detailed collection instructions.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |