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Cobalt, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of cobalt in your blood to help assess recent exposure, supplementation, or possible release from a medical implant.

Quick summary

["An elevated cobalt level may indicate increased exposure or release of cobalt from a supplement or implant."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25378-1
Short code
Cobalt SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Cobalt SerPl-sCnc
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?

A cobalt test measures the concentration of cobalt, a trace element, in serum or plasma. Your body normally needs very small amounts of cobalt, mainly as part of vitamin B12.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have been exposed to cobalt in your work, take a cobalt-containing supplement, or have a metal joint implant that could release small amounts of cobalt. It may also be used to investigate unexplained symptoms or an unexpected metal exposure.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and separated into serum or plasma by the laboratory. The amount of cobalt in the fluid is then measured using laboratory testing methods, and the result is reported as a substance concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell your doctor about any cobalt-containing supplements, occupational exposure, or metal implants. Follow your laboratory's instructions about timing; if you take a cobalt supplement, ask whether you should pause it before the blood draw.

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

Cobalt Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a cobalt blood test measure?
It measures the amount of cobalt in serum or plasma. This can help assess recent exposure or possible release of cobalt from a supplement or medical implant.
What can cause a high cobalt level?
Possible causes include occupational exposure, recent use of a cobalt-containing supplement, or wear of certain metal joint implants. Your doctor will review these factors when interpreting the result.
Do I need to stop supplements before this test?
Ask your doctor or laboratory before stopping any supplement. Some supplements can affect the result, and the appropriate timing depends on the reason for testing and the laboratory's 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