Cobalt, Fluid — Mass Concentration
Measures the concentration of cobalt in a submitted body fluid to help assess exposure and possible effects from this metal.
["An elevated cobalt fluid level may indicate exposure to cobalt, but results must be interpreted with the type of fluid, timing, and exposure history."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51194-9
- Short code
- Cobalt Fld-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cobalt Fld-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures how much cobalt is present in a body fluid. Cobalt is a trace metal found naturally in the body and may also enter the body through certain foods, products, supplements, or workplace exposures.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test after a suspected cobalt exposure, such as exposure during metalworking, manufacturing, contaminated supplements, or contact with certain products. It may also be used to monitor exposure in workers or evaluate symptoms that could be related to cobalt.
How is the test performed?
A sample of the specified fluid is collected and sent to a laboratory, where its cobalt concentration is measured using a specialized trace-element testing method. The laboratory method may vary, and collection containers and handling requirements can differ by specimen type.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation depends on the exact fluid being tested. Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including any fasting or timing requirements. Tell the clinician and laboratory about recent cobalt exposure, supplements, occupational contact, and medicines or products that may contain cobalt.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cobalt Level, Fluid
Frequently asked questions
What type of fluid is tested?
Does an elevated result mean I have cobalt poisoning?
Can I take supplements or continue normal activities before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy