Serum chromium
Definition
Serum chromium is a test for increased levels of chromium in the blood.
Alternative Names
Chromium blood testWhy the Test is Performed
This test may be done to diagnose chromium poisoning.
How the Test is Performed
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.
Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm.
Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
How the Test Will Feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Risks
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Considerations
Test results may be altered if the sample is collected in a metal tube.
Normal Results
Serum chromium levels normally range from less than 0.05 up to 0.5 micrograms/milliliter (mg/mL).
The range of normal values depends on the type of specimen tested and may vary between different laboratories.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Increased chromium levels may result from overexposure in the following industries:
- Leather tanning
- Electroplating
- Steel manufacturing
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