Heavy Metals Urine
HMU
Description
"Heavy Metals Urine" test checks for harmful metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium in your urine to assess recent or ongoing exposure. It’s especially useful for people with suspected metal poisoning due to occupational risks, environmental contact, or dietary sources. High levels may affect kidney, nerve, or brain health. Doctors use the results to confirm exposure and guide next steps—such as detox protocols, chelation therapy, or lifestyle changes—to reduce toxicity and support recovery.
Test Category
Metals, Minerals, Toxins
Procedure
Non-Invasive
Sample Type
Urine
Units
Micrograms Per Gram Creatinine
Procedure Category
Collect, Measure
Test Group
Toxicity Group, Metals Group
Test Group Description
Metals Group: By assessing various metal levels and related parameters, it offers insights into metal toxicity as well as associated health conditions. Toxicity Group: This group encompasses tests aimed at evaluating exposure to various toxins and pollutants, providing insights into potential toxicological concerns and environmental exposures.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Arsenic: Conventional Unit: Not Available | SI Unit: Not Available
Barium: Conventional Unit: Not Available | SI Unit: Not Available
Cadmium: Conventional Unit: Not Available | SI Unit: Not Available
Cobalt: Conventional Unit: Not...
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Arsenic: Conventional Unit: <24.00 µg/g creatinine | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Barium: Conventional Unit: <7.00 µg/g creatinine | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Cadmium: Conventional Unit: <0.60 µg/g creatinine | SI Unit: Not Applicable
Cobalt: ...
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Aluminum exposure
Arsenic poisoning
Cadmium exposure
Lead poisoning
Mercury toxicity
Nickel exposure
Renal dysfunction (Impaired kidney function)
Thallium poisoning
Wilson's disease (Genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism)
Key Reasons For Testing
Acute Exposure Assessment: Urine testing evaluates recent or ongoing exposure to toxic metals, such as lead or mercury.
Occupational Monitoring: Tracks heavy metal exposure in workers in high-risk industries like mining and construction.
Environmental Surveillance: Detects exposure from pollutants in air, water, soil, or food sources.
Chronic Toxicity Evaluation: Assesses long-term metal accumulation and associated health risks.
Renal Function Insight: Identifies nephrotoxic effects of metals like cadmium.
Treatment Monitoring: Tracks chelation therapy effectiveness in reducing toxicity.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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