Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Arsenic is excreted in the urine and measurement of the urinary arsenic output is the determination of choice. Concentrations both in blood and urine will increase after the consumption of sea food. Separation of the arsenic species in urine is necessary to distinguish between the toxic and non-toxic forms. Alternatively known sources of non-toxic arsenic should be excluded from the diet some five days before making an assessment.
Specimen container paediatric:
Urine-Random
Specimen container adult:
Urine-Random
Minimum volume paediatric:
20 mL aliquot in a plain universal
Minimum volume adult:
20 mL aliquot in a plain universal
Transport requirements:
By 1st class post to referral lab.
Interpretation:
Symptoms of arsenic poisoning begin with headaches, confusion, severe diarrhea, and drowsiness. As the poisoning develops, convulsions and changes in fingernail pigmentation called leukonychia striata, Mees’ lines, or Aldrich-Mees’ lines may occur. When the poisoning becomes acute, symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, blood in the urine, cramping muscles, hair loss, stomach pain, and more convulsions. The organs of the body that are usually affected by arsenic poisoning are the lungs, skin, kidneys, and liver. The final result of arsenic poisoning is coma and death.
Reference ranges:
Provided on report from referral laboratory.
Factors affecting result:
For arsenic analysis, diet must be free of seafood for 5 days.
Other Info:
Referral Laboratory: SAS Trace Element Laboratory, The Surrey Research Park, 15 Frederick Sanger Road, Guildford GU2 7YD