Cobalt, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration
A blood test that measures the amount of cobalt circulating in the body. It may be used to assess recent cobalt exposure or support evaluation of trace-element and nutritional status.
["This test measures cobalt in blood and can help evaluate recent exposure to cobalt or possible nutritional imbalance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23842-8
- Short code
- Cobalt Snv-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cobalt Snv-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- 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
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test measures the concentration of cobalt in serum or plasma, the liquid portion of blood. Cobalt is a trace element and is also an essential component of vitamin B12.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered to investigate an unexpected exposure to cobalt, such as from certain industrial products, contaminated food or water, or some medical devices and supplements. It may also be considered when symptoms suggest a problem with trace-element nutrition.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and sent to a laboratory, where the cobalt concentration is measured using a validated analytical method. Results are reported as a mass concentration, generally in a unit such as micrograms per deciliter.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's instructions. Tell the healthcare professional about any supplements, occupational exposure, recent medical devices, or possible exposure to contaminated food or water, because these factors can affect the result.
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.
A higher-than-expected cobalt concentration may indicate recent exposure or intake that exceeds what the body can readily handle. A lower concentration can occur with nutritional deficiency or with conditions that affect nutrient absorption, although blood cobalt levels are influenced by exposure, diet, supplements, and medical devices.
Short name
Cobalt, Serum/Plasma
Frequently asked questions
Does a blood cobalt level diagnose cobalt poisoning?
Why might my healthcare professional order this test?
Can I interpret the result without a reference range?
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