Lead (Venous), OSHA and Zinc Protoporphyrin Evaluation
Also known as: ZPP
Use
This test evaluates blood lead concentration and zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) levels to assess occupational exposure, particularly in compliance with OSHA monitoring requirements. It helps identify elevated lead levels indicative of industrial exposure and estimates protoporphyrin increase due to lead interfer‑ ence with heme synthesis.
Special Instructions
Preferred specimen is whole blood collected in a potassium EDTA, lead‑free (tan‑top) or EDTA (royal blue‑top) tube. Other acceptable specimens include EDTA (dark/royal blue‑top) or sodium heparin (dark/royal blue‑top) tubes. Use a lead‑free tube if blood lead testing is also requested. Transport refrigerated with cold packs.
Limitations
Specimens that are hemolyzed, clotted, collected in EDTA lavender‑top tubes, or received frozen are unacceptable. Frozen specimens are rejected. Reference ranges are for industrial exposure and should be interpreted in accordance with current governmental regulations. Zinc protoporphyrin adds little to clinical decisions such as chelation or removal/return‑to‑work decisions and should be considered supplemental to blood lead levels.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Potassium EDTA, lead‑free (tan‑top), or EDTA (royal blue‑top) tube
Collection Instructions
Use a lead‑free tube if blood lead is also requested.
Storage Instructions
Transport refrigerated (cold packs)
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis • Clotted • EDTA (lavender‑top) tube
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 days |
| Refrigerated | 10 days |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant