Lithium Li | Determination of metallic lithium in blood

General Information

Lithium (Li) is a monovalent alkali metal. Lithium salts are potentially toxic compounds. It is found in very low concentration or practically not in the blood. It is necessary to carry out research when starting to take lithium medication, or when monitoring its concentration in the blood after renewal.

The aim of the study is to determine the toxicity of lithium.

There are three types of lithium poisoning:

Acute intoxication with lithium - Symptoms include weakness, tremors, the degree of which increases, impaired coordination and concentration, diarrhea.

Subacute-chronic intoxication with lithium -  Gastrointestinal discomfort develops, sometimes neurological disorders.

Chronic lithium poisoning - Neurological symptoms appear, the severity of which depends on the degree of intoxication.

Early signs of lithium intoxication:

• Ingratitude
• Heartburn-vomiting
• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Hyperactive bladder syndrome
• Feeling dizzy and light-headed
• confusion of consciousness
• Tremors (shaking), muscle weakness, spasms or fibrillations in the face, tongue, eyes and neck.
• Difficulty speaking
• Lithium intoxication disrupts the functions of the kidneys and the central nervous system. In cases of acute poisoning, cardiovascular disorders are also observed.
• In very rare cases, diabetes may lead to diabetes insipidus (a condition in which frequent urination is not related to blood glucose levels, but is the result of hypothalamic-pituitary disorders). It is characterized by increased thirst and frequent urination.

Reference norms: 0,35 – 1,45 ng/l

Preliminary preparation: The study is conducted on an empty stomach. If the patient was taking lithium medication, the medication should be stopped at least 12 hours before the study.