Molybdenum Spot Urine Test

Molybdenum Spot Urine test measures the amount of molybdenum excreted in your urine over a short period.

• The Molybdenum Spot Urine test is done to diagnose molybdenum deficiency and monitor its treatment.
• It may also be used to assess your exposure to environmental and occupational sources of molybdenum.
• The test helps evaluate your risk for molybdenum toxicity which can cause diarrhoea, skin rashes, and gout-like symptoms.

Your doctor might recommend the Molybdenum Spot Urine test if you have

• Symptoms suggestive of molybdenum deficiency such as fatigue, irritability, and loss of appetite
• Inherited metabolic disorders affecting molybdenum metabolism
• Chronic exposure to high levels of molybdenum through occupational or environmental sources
• A history of kidney disease that could affect mineral excretion

Elevated levels may indicate recent molybdenum intake or exposure to molybdenum-rich sources. Low levels could indicate molybdenum deficiency or impaired excretion.

During the test

• You will need to provide a spot urine sample in a metal-free container.
• You may need to avoid molybdenum-rich foods and supplements for a few days before the test.

To prepare for the test

• You may need to avoid foods and supplements that contain molybdenum for at least three days before the test.
• Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications that can interfere with the test results.
• Drink enough fluids to facilitate urine production, but do not drink excessive amounts of water.
• Please reach out to your healthcare provider for any specific requirements.

• Serum molybdenum: This blood test measures the amount of molybdenum in your blood. It can help diagnose inherited metabolic disorders affecting molybdenum metabolism.
• Complete blood count (CBC): This blood test measures the number and type of blood cells in your body. It can help evaluate anaemia caused by molybdenum deficiency.

Urine molybdenum test or Mo urine test

Molybdenum deficiency is a rare condition that can cause developmental delays, seizures, metabolic abnormalities, and anaemia. It may occur in people with genetic defects affecting molybdenum metabolism or those with diets lacking molybdenum-rich foods such as legumes, nuts, and dairy products.