Cobalt, Red Blood Cells — Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of cobalt in red blood cells. It may be used to assess recent cobalt exposure or exposure from certain industrial or medical sources.
["An elevated red blood cell cobalt level may indicate recent exposure to cobalt, although contamination during collection can also affect results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60066-8
- Short code
- Cobalt RBC-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cobalt RBC-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Cobalt is a trace element that is naturally present in the body and may also enter the body through certain foods, supplements, workplace exposures, or medical devices. This test measures the amount of cobalt contained in red blood cells.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms associated with cobalt exposure, work with cobalt-containing materials, or have recently had a medical device or implant that could release cobalt. It may also be used to help identify a possible source of an unexpectedly elevated result.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentration of cobalt in the red blood cell component. Because trace metals can be affected by contamination, the laboratory may use specially cleaned collection materials and strict handling procedures.
How do I prepare for the test?
No specific preparation is usually required, but you should tell your healthcare professional about any supplements, occupational exposure, recent surgery involving an implant, or use of products containing cobalt. Follow the laboratory's instructions because proper collection is important for an accurate result.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A higher-than-expected cobalt level may reflect recent exposure to cobalt, potentially from workplace dust or fumes, contaminated products, or certain medical implants. Elevated results should be interpreted with symptoms, exposure history, and other tests because environmental contamination during collection can also cause a high result. A low result is generally less clinically meaningful and is not usually a sign of disease.
Short name
Cobalt (RBCs)
Frequently asked questions
What does an elevated cobalt level mean?
Does this test show how long I have been exposed to cobalt?
Do I need to stop taking supplements or medicines 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