Metals Profile – 1, Blood

This test measures the levels of five toxic heavy metals – mercury, arsenic, lead, cadmium and chromium in your blood.

• To assess a person's exposure to toxic metals.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of therapy or treatment in case of metal poisoning.
• To identify or monitor occupational exposure.
• To investigate suspected metal toxicity as a cause of health problems.

Your doctor might recommend this test if you have:

• Symptoms suggestive of heavy metal toxicity such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, kidney, liver, and brain damage, neurological impairment, fatigue, abdominal pain, muscle and joint pain, memory loss, and mood changes.
• Occupational exposure to heavy metals such as mining, welding or battery plant workers.
• Older adults with heart conditions and hypertension are also at risk as well as children who live near industrial areas.

Elevated levels indicate exposure to toxic heavy metals. 

This test will require a blood sample from a vein. A healthcare professional will cleanse the area of the skin from where they will obtain the blood sample with an antiseptic solution, puncture the vein with a needle, and collect the blood collected. The procedure lasts only a few minutes, and there is little discomfort associated with it.

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.

• Liver function tests
• Renal function tests

Heavy metals panel, heavy metals toxicity panel, toxic metals profile

Metal toxicity refers to the harmful effects of toxic metals in the body. Overexposure to heavy metals can cause acute or chronic toxicity resulting in a range of health problems. Symptoms of metal toxicity vary depending on the type and level of exposure and may include gastrointestinal disturbances, tremors, memory loss, respiratory problems, and kidney and liver damage.