Diet, medication, and nutritional supplements may introduce interfering substances. Patients should be encouraged to discontinue nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, and non-essential over-the-counter medications, upon the advice of their physician. High concentrations of iodine may interfere with elemental testing. Abstinence from iodine-containing medications or contrast agents for at least 1 month prior to collecting specimens for elemental testing is recommended.
Specimen Collection Requirements
Specimen must be collected in a plastic container. ARUP studies indicate that refrigeration of urine alone, during and after collection, preserves specimens adequately if tested within 14 days of collection. Transfer 8 mL aliquot from a well-mixed collection to Trace Element-Free Transport Tubes. Available through Legacy Client Services. (Min: 2 mL)
Urine collected within 48 hours after administration of a gadolinium (Gd) containing contrast media (may occur with MRI studies). Acid preserved urine. Specimens contaminated with blood or fecal material. Specimens transported in non-trace element-free transport tube (with the exception of the original device).
Ambient: 1 week; Refrigerated (preferred): 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year
Testing Information
Inductively Coupled Plasma/Mass Spectrometry
Reference Values
Last Updated:
Wednesday, November 27, 2019 07:33:06 PM
Client Services: 503-413-1234