Thallium Hair Test by ICPMS

This test measures the amount of thallium present in your hair sample.

The Thallium Hair Test by ICPMS is done for the following reasons:

• To detect acute and chronic exposure to thallium
• To diagnose and monitor thallium poisoning
• To evaluate treatment effectiveness for thallium poisoning
• To assess chronic exposure to thallium, especially in people who work with thallium or in industries dealing with thallium

Your doctor may recommend this test if

• You are exposed to high levels of thallium through your work.
• You have symptoms suggestive of thallium poisoning, such as hair loss, skin rash, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and neurological symptoms.
• You have a history of thallium poisoning.
• You are on long-term treatment for thallium poisoning.

Elevated levels may indicate acute or chronic exposure to thallium. Excess exposure to thallium can damage the central nervous system, kidneys, heart, and other organs. This test alone cannot confirm thallium poisoning; it needs additional investigations like blood tests, urine tests, and X-rays.

This test involves taking a small sample of hair from the back of your head, close to the scalp. This is because the hair follicle's root contains information about the amount of thallium in your body over time.

No specific preparation is required before this test. However, your hair must be clean before the sample collection. You should avoid applying any hair products like oils, gels, sprays, or dyes to your hair before the collection.

Other tests that may be recommended along with the Thallium Hair Test by ICPMS include:

• Blood tests: To determine liver and kidney function and check for abnormalities caused by thallium poisoning
• Urine tests: To check for thallium exposure and assess kidney function
• X-rays: To detect thallium particles in the digestive system
• ECG: To evaluate heart function

Thallium hair sample test or THT

Thallium poisoning occurs when you ingest or inhale high levels of thallium. It can also happen through skin contact with contaminated soil or water sources. It can cause severe health problems, ranging from hair loss, skin rash, digestive problems, and neurological symptoms to kidney damage, heart problems, and even death.