Aluminium (Al) - blood

Indications:

Aluminium is the third most abundant element in the earth’s crust. However it is only since man started extracting aluminium and its subsequent widespread use in cooking and other household utensils, in packaging materials and in salt and other foods, antiperspirants & deodorants and drugs (including antacids, analgesics and anti-diarrhoea and ulcer remedies), that we have been exposed to it in a soluble form.

The acidic nature of vegetables and fruit increases the absorption of aluminium from cookwear.

There is no known biological function of aluminium in man and therefore exposure should be limited. Research on the effects of aluminium toxicity are derived from studies of complications of renal dialysis in the 1970’s.

Aluminium is not easily absorbed but mucosal damage, advanced age or genetic pre-disposition may facilitate its uptake. Movement across the blood-brain barrier is thought to be facilitated by complexing with fluoride. Aluminium toxicity affects the central nervous system, the parathyroid gland and bone metabolism. It has also been associated with dementia some joint problems and hyperactivity.

Levels of aluminium can be measured in hair, plasma and urine which is the preferred method for monitoring exposure. The lower the level the better.

Patient Instructions:

No longer available - use Plasma Aluminium

Included in Profiles:

Blood toxic elements profile

Datasheet:

aluminium.pdf (Click to Download)

Sample Requirements:

Navy Blue (EDTA)

Postal Samples Acceptable:

Yes