Blood is the best matrix for assessing exposure to organic mercury (methyl mercury found in fish). Urine is the best matrix for assessing exposure to metallic and inorganic mercury. If in doubt, send both sample types. The commonest source of mercury is contaminated fish (tuna, swordfish, shark). Some skin lightening creams and traditional medicines and cosmetics are also known to contain mercury. Blood and urine testing is not useful for assessing exposure to mercury from dental amalgam in fillings.
Tube
EDTA (Haem)
ID
29965
Availability
Weekdays only. Urgent analysis is possible please contact Laboratory or Duty Biochemist.
Additional Information
Cases of suspected mercury poisoning should be discussed with the National Poisons Information Service.
Turn around
7 days
Send to
First Class Post to: Specialist Laboratory Medicine,
Block 46,
St James’s University Hospital,
Beckett Street,
Leeds
LS9 7TF
Contact
For further details please contact Leeds Pathology customer services: [email protected].
Collection Con
No restrictions
Sample REQ
Store at 4C prior to sending.
Units
nmol/L