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Cobalt [Mass Content], Nail

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A trace-element test that measures the amount of cobalt in a nail sample to help evaluate possible cobalt exposure.

Quick summary

["This test measures cobalt in your nails and may help assess exposure to cobalt, especially if an occupational or environmental source is suspected."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60065-0
Short code
Cobalt Nail-mCnt
Synonyms
Cobalt Nail-mCnt
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 the amount of cobalt in a small sample of your nail. Cobalt is a trace element found naturally in the body and in some foods, supplements, medicines, and workplace materials.

Why might I need this test?

A nail cobalt test may be ordered if you have had contact with cobalt-containing materials, such as certain industrial products, metalworking materials, or some medical devices. It may also be used to follow up a previous test that suggested increased cobalt exposure.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory analyzes a small nail sample and reports the amount of cobalt it contains. Nails reflect exposure over time, so results are interpreted along with your exposure history and other health information.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully. Tell the laboratory about any supplements, medicines, occupation, hobbies, or recent exposure to metals that may contain cobalt, as these factors can affect interpretation.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

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

Nail Cobalt

Frequently asked questions

What does a nail cobalt test measure?
It measures the amount of cobalt present in a nail sample. The result can help evaluate exposure to cobalt over time.
Does an abnormal result mean I have cobalt poisoning?
Not necessarily. An abnormal result may suggest increased exposure, but it must be interpreted with your medical history, exposure sources, symptoms, and other laboratory findings.
Can nail polish or metal tools affect the result?
Yes. Nail products, cosmetic tools, and handling of metal-containing materials may introduce cobalt or contaminate the sample. Ask the laboratory for specific collection and preparation instructions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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