UK
Updates for the
Elemental Analysis Profile
We've Updated the Collection Process for Elements
The Elemental Analysis Profile is changing. The table below outlines the specimen matrix updates. Additionally, the collection process is being simplified by reducing required sample volume.
We have created a collection update reminder label for Elemental Analysis collection kits. When you see the reminder label, simply follow the collection process instructions included within the labeled kit.
If you DO NOT see the update reminder label on your Elemental Analysis kit, follow the collection process included within that test kit. Please watch for notification in the coming weeks regarding the discontinuation of this kit and related instructions.
Specimen-Matrix Updates
Elemental Markers are currently measured in red blood cells (RBCs) specimen matrix. The updated collection process is part of a change to this specimen matrix.
Highlights of these changes are shown below:
Element |
Current Specimen Matrix |
New Specimen Matrix |
Chromium* |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Copper |
RBC |
Plasma |
Magnesium |
RBC |
RBC |
Manganese |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Potassium |
RBC |
RBC |
Selenium |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Vanadium* |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Zinc |
RBC |
Plasma |
Lead |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Mercury |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Arsenic |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Cadmium |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Tin |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Antimony |
RBC |
Discontinued
in Blood, available urine only |
Thallium |
RBC |
Discontinued
in Blood, available urine only |
* These elements currently on Elemental Analysis only.
New reference ranges will be provided and were converted according to CLSI guidelines.
Specimen-Matrix Updates
Elemental Markers are currently measured in red blood cells (RBCs) specimen matrix. The updated simplified collection process is part of a change to this specimen matrix.
Highlights of these changes are shown below:
Element |
Current Specimen Matrix |
New Specimen Matrix |
Chromium* |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Copper |
RBC |
Plasma |
Magnesium |
RBC |
RBC |
Manganese |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Potassium |
RBC |
RBC |
Selenium |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Vanadium* |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Zinc |
RBC |
Plasma |
Lead |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Mercury |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Arsenic |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Cadmium |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Tin |
RBC |
Whole Blood |
Antimony |
RBC |
Discontinued
in Blood, available urine only |
Thallium |
RBC |
Discontinued
in Blood, available urine only |
* These elements currently on Elemental Analysis only.
New reference ranges will be provided and were converted according to CLSI guidelines.
These matrix updates will allow improved Elemental Analysis reporting alignment with available NHANES data and better comparability to the scientific literature. Report commentary for each element has been adjusted where needed to reflect any changes in matrix.
If you have questions regarding this change or what it means for your patients, please contact us at +44 (0)20 8336 7750 to speak with one of our Client Services Representatives.