Nickel Whole Blood

This test measures the level of nickel in your blood.

• To diagnose and monitor nickel poisoning
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatments for conditions related to nickel exposure
• To assess occupational exposure to nickel in people working in nickel-related industries

Your healthcare provider might recommend this test if you

• Work in industries where you may have been exposed to high levels of nickel
• Have symptoms that suggest nickel poisoning such as skin rash, headache, dizziness, or stomach pain
• Have been exposed to nickel through unusual circumstances
• Have a medical condition caused by long-term exposure to nickel

Abnormal levels may indicate acute or chronic exposure to nickel and can cause various symptoms ranging from skin irritation to organ damage.

During the test

• Your healthcare provider will take a blood sample from your vein.
• The sample will be sent to a laboratory for testing.
• The test is quick and simple, and most people experience little to no discomfort during the procedure.

No special preparations are needed for this test. However, inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications, have any specific requirements or have any medical conditions that may affect the test results.

• Nickel Spot Testing: A skin patch test that determines if you have an allergic reaction to nickel.
• Urinary Nickel Testing: A urine test that measures the levels of nickel in your body.
• Other Heavy Metal Tests: Your healthcare provider may order other heavy metal tests to determine if you have been exposed to other toxic metals.

Whole blood nickel test or nickel test

Nickel poisoning occurs when excessive amounts of nickel enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Long-term exposure to high levels of nickel can cause various symptoms such as skin irritation, lung damage, and cancer.