Barium Spot Urine Test

This test measures the level of barium in your urine.

• To detect toxicity of barium in the body from sources like water, food, and air
• To identify occupational exposure to barium

Your doctor may recommend this test if

• you have symptoms of barium poisoning like muscle weakness, difficulty in breathing, digestive problems, or
• you work in an industry that has a high chance of exposing you to barium.

Elevated levels could indicate acute or chronic exposure to barium.

• You will be given a metal-free container to collect a spot urine sample.
• The laboratory will analyse your urine sample using ICPMS (Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) to measure the level of barium.

• While there are no specific preparations needed, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine if there are any particular requirements you should be aware of.

If there is a high level of barium in your body, further testing like a chest X-ray or CT (computerised tomography) scan may be required to identify any damage or inflammation in your respiratory system.

Urine barium test or barium toxicity test

Barium toxicity is a condition that occurs when the body absorbs a toxic amount of barium. Long-term exposure to barium can lead to gastrointestinal illness, muscle weakness, breathing difficulties, and even death in extreme cases.