Heavy Metal Profile, Urine

Lead:

Lead poisoning can affect the bones, kidneys and thyroid through exposure. It is the main cause of childhood heavy metal poisoning. It used to be used in paint, pipes and drains in homes, and was ingested through flaking, weathering, and dust. Lead can also be found in plumbing, fuel additives, ammunition, PVC plastics and x-ray shielding. Blood tests should be performed if lead poisoning is suspected. The Blood Lead Levels (BLL) testing will show the amount of lead that exists in the blood. The test does not show the actual amount of lead that is in the body. An elevated level of lead in the blood for an adult is 25 grams per deciliter.

Mercury:

Mercury is found in mining operations and the paper industry. Atmospheric mercury is found in rain and in the aquatic food supplies and fish in lakes. Mercury compounds are banned, but some old paints may contain it. Childhood vaccines can contain mercury, and it is also found in thermometers and dental amalgams. It generally enters the body through inhalation and targets the brain and kidneys.

Cadmium:

Cadmium is exposed when mining lead and zinc. It is used in batteries, fertilizers and PVC plastics. Cigarettes also contain cadmium. The toxicity affects the liver, placenta, lungs, brain, kidneys and bones. Certain reservoirs that contain shellfish can contain cadmium, and it is often found in the soil through the use of pesticides.

Arsenic:

Arsenic is a common cause of acute poisoning through heavy metals. It enters the environment through smelting of copper, zinc and lead. It is also released through the manufacturing of certain chemicals. Pesticides that contain arsenic, when manufactured, release arsine gas. There is even arsenic found in water supplies around the world, which leaches into shellfish, cod and haddock. Certain older paints contain arsenic, as does rat poisoning, fungicides and products used to preserve wood. Arsenic, when ingested, will affect the bodys blood, central nervous system and digestive system. It can also be harmful to the kidneys and skin systems.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kurt Kloss, MD
Last Reviewed Date: Oct 29, 2019