Test Category: Specialist Biochemistry
Investigation Name:Cobalt- Urine
Alias or Abbreviation:Urine Co, urine cobalt to creatinine ratio
Accreditation:UKAS ISO15189:2022 Accredited test: On scope
Intro:
Cobalt is a component of cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12 ) and as such is an essential element. The metal is mainly used to make high temperature high strength alloys and is also used in the semi-conductor industry. Di-cobalt edentate is used in the treatment of cyanide poisoning.Chronic exposure to inorganic cobalt may be associated with cardiomyopathy.
Measurement of cobalt in urine is the investigation of choice for the monitoring of occupational exposure.
Pathology Laboratory:Trace Elements Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Units: nmol/mmol creatinine
Minimum Sample Volume:2 mL urine
Expected Turnaround Time: 7 working days.
Urgent analysis where clinically indicated may be arranged directly with the laboratory.
Test Code:UCO
Sample Type:
Spot urine collected into a plain white -top universal containerComplex Reference Range:< 2 nmol/mmol creatinine
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Store at 4 °C prior to dispatch
Posting Address / Requirements:Ambient temperature, 1st Class post.
Sandwell Health Campus,
Pathology Department,
Specialist Chemistry,
Lyndon,
B71 4HJ
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available:Yes
EQA Scheme:UK NEQAS for Trace Elements
Further information:For occupational monitoring, a spot urine collected end of shift, end of working week is recommended.
We are a designated Supra-Regional Assay Service (SAS) Laboratory for Trace Elements.
Lead Contact Details:Dr Nicola Barlow, Consultant Clinical Scientist,
SAS Director Trace Elements Laboratory
Email: nicola.barlow1@nhs.net
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Methodology:Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Site Sample Tested:Sandwell Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:Tel: 0121 507 5162
