Cobalt Urine (24 h) Test

The Cobalt Urine Test measures the levels of cobalt in your urine.

• To assess if excessive exposure to cobalt has led to cobalt toxicity or poisoning
• To monitor exposure to cobalt in people working in environments with high levels of this element
• To evaluate treatment effectiveness for individuals diagnosed with cobalt-related health conditions

The cobalt test is usually recommended for

• people showing symptoms of exposure to high levels of cobalt, such as skin rash, vomiting, and nausea,
• people who work in environments with high levels of cobalt, and
• people who are already diagnosed with conditions related to excessive exposure to the mineral.

Elevated levels of cobalt in urine may indicate exposure to high levels of the mineral or cobalt poisoning and can lead to a variety of health concerns, including respiratory problems, thyroid dysfunction, and anaemia.

The Cobalt Urine test only requires a simple urine sample from the patient. Here's what to expect:

• You will receive a sterile container to collect a urine sample.
• The sample will be collected at home and taken to the laboratory for testing.

• Inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you are currently taking.
• Avoid alcohol consumption and excessive vitamin C intake 24 hours before collecting the sample.
• Do not take or apply any cobalt-containing supplements or products on your skin two days before collecting the sample.
• Reach out to your healthcare provider for any specific requirements.

• Kidney function tests: People with high cobalt exposure levels often experience kidney problems.
• Blood tests: These tests help detect cobalt levels in the blood and the toxicity of the mineral.

Urinary cobalt test or Cobalt (Co) urine test

Cobalt toxicity is a condition in which there is excessive exposure to cobalt through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Symptoms of cobalt toxicity include shortness of breath, heart palpitations, nausea, vomiting, and skin rash.