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Arsenic | As (blood)

Known as: Arsenic As
SKU: 142

₾105.00

Study material: Venous blood
Response time (working day): 14
The test is done on an empty stomach: Yes
Home call service: Yes
Country: EU

General Information

Arsenic As

Determination of arsenic (As, Arsenic) in blood is used to assess the impact of recent arsenic intake on the body. The study is important in the assessment of both acute poisoning and occupational or environmental exposure.

Arsenic is historically the strongest poison. It is known as the "king of poisons and the poison of kings". It exists in nature as metalloid (As0), inorganic (As3+ and As5+), organic arsenic and arsine (AsH3).

Arsenic is absorbed from the small intestine. It is also possible to contaminate it through the skin and respiratory tract. It spreads to: lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, muscles, nervous tissue.

When should we take the test?

  • In case of suspected acute arsenic poisoning
  • In case of occupational contact with arsenic-containing substances (mining, metallurgy, wood processing, chemical industry)
  • If there is suspicion of consuming contaminated drinking water or food
  • In the presence of symptoms of intoxication of unknown cause
  • For occupational or environmental exposure monitoring

Possible interpretation of the results

A higher than normal concentration of heavy metals in the blood may be a sign of severe intoxication, but not always. Even in the absence of symptoms, it is necessary to find a source of intoxication to reduce toxic exposure. Depending on the need, chelation (binding) therapy is also prescribed. Chelation therapy is usually accompanied by serious side effects, so the question of treatment should be decided by a doctor based on an assessment of risks and benefits.

A normal or low concentration of heavy metals in the blood indicates the absence of intoxication. However, some heavy metals quickly leave the bloodstream and accumulate in tissues. Therefore, in the presence of symptoms, despite the detection of a low concentration of heavy metals in the blood, sometimes additional studies are necessary - skin, hair, nails and other tissues.

  • Increased level – Indicates recent exposure or intoxication to arsenic. The patient's clinical condition and exposure history are important in evaluating the result.
  • Normal level – Acute significant exposure is unlikely

Reference values

Acute and chronic arsenic poisoning is associated with the inactivation of a number of vital enzymes. By inactivating pyruvate dehydrogenase, the Krebs cycle is blocked and, as a result, ATP synthesis is delayed, which leads to cell cycle disruption and cell necrosis. The toxic effect of arsenic on the endothelium of blood vessels leads to increased permeability of blood vessels, expansion of blood vessels and circulatory collapse. In case of chronic intoxication, arsenic can cross the placental barrier and initiate miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth in the early gestational period.

Arsenic accumulates in skin cells and causes keratosis and hyperpigmentation. Decreased expression of keratinocytes is accompanied by apoptosis aberration and skin tumorigenesis.

Hepatocellular carcinoma and angiosarcoma are associated with arsenic intoxication.

Oxidative stress-induced lipid peroxidation leads to DNA damage and CNS cell death.

Research material

The research material is selected depending on which metal is being tested and how long it was exposed to (short-term, long-term). Urine and blood are the most common test materials. To diagnose chronic intoxication, it is sometimes necessary to study nails and hair.

How to prepare for the test?

Some foods (fish, crustaceans) and medicines may contain heavy metals, so it is not recommended to take such products and medicines for 48 hours before the study.

 

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This medical information is not intended to be a universal treatment guide for all patients. The treatment process, including the type, volume, and frequency of diagnostic tests and therapeutic procedures, is determined by the physician individually — based on an assessment of the patient's condition and relevant medical indications. The decision is made in consultation with the patient. Before purchasing a test, please read the instructions for its preparation.
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