Micronutrient, Cobalt, Blood

What this laboratory test evaluates

Micronutrient, Cobalt, Blood
Cobalt is a dietary mineral. Most of the cobalt we absorb is passed out through urine, with a small amount leaving through stool. While cobalt is essential, too much can be harmful, especially in certain work environments. Since cobalt isn't mined in the U.S., it's brought in from other countries.

What patients is this test right for?This test might be recommended for individuals exposed to high levels of cobalt, especially in industrial settings, or to assess dietary cobalt levels.

What type of sample is required for this test?4 mL whole blood.
It needs to be collected in an EDTA trace metal-free (royal blue-top) tube.

Test ResourcesInformation on where to find more about this test is not provided.

Additional test information

Cobalt is part of our diet. Approximately 85% of absorbed cobalt is excreted in the urine and the remainder eliminated in stool. Toxicity may occur in select industrial environments.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Whole blood
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.

Related Sunridge care

Learn how Sunridge approaches Complex Multi-System Illness and ask whether this test is appropriate for your clinical question.