Cobalt, Plasma Test
The plasma cobalt test is used
to monitor industrial exposure to cobalt. Cobalt poisoning through chronic
exposure may result in pulmonary fibrosis, cough, and dyspnea. Acute exposures
are generally characterized by an allergic dermatitis. Cobalt is employed
industrially in certain grades of steel and in tungsten carbide tools, and
cobalt compounds are used as pigments in paints. Although cobalt is found
in the general environment, overexposure typically occurs in the industrial
environment, primarily through the inhalation of cobalt dust and/or fumes.
Cobalt exposure can also occur as a result of ingesting medications such as
cobaltous chloride. Blood is the preferred specimen for measuring acute or
recent exposure.
In addition, cobalt is an essential
element in man, supplied through dietary intake at an average of 280 µg/day.
A significant deviation from the
normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.
Private MD Lab Services
offers the following test for plasma cobalt:
