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Cobalt, Tissue — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of cobalt in a tissue sample. This test may help evaluate exposure to cobalt from occupational sources, supplements, medications, or medical devices.

Quick summary

["An elevated tissue cobalt level may suggest exposure to cobalt, but results must be interpreted with other clinical and exposure information."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60067-6
Short code
Cobalt Tiss-mCnt
Synonyms
Cobalt Tiss-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 concentration of cobalt, a trace metal, in tissue. It provides information about how much cobalt is present in the sampled body tissue.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when there is concern about excessive cobalt exposure. Possible sources include workplace exposure, cobalt-containing supplements or medications, and certain medical devices or implants.

How is the test performed?

A tissue sample is obtained by a healthcare professional and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory measures cobalt in the sample and reports the concentration in units appropriate for the tissue and testing method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on how the tissue is collected. Follow your clinician's instructions and tell the laboratory about any recent supplements, medications, occupational exposure, or medical devices that may contain cobalt.

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, tissue

Frequently asked questions

What does a high cobalt tissue level mean?
It may suggest increased exposure to cobalt from an occupational source, supplement, medication, or medical device. Additional history and testing are needed to determine whether the result is clinically significant.
How is a cobalt tissue test collected?
The test requires a tissue sample, which is usually collected by a healthcare professional. The collection method and handling are determined by the laboratory and the clinical situation.
Are there any supplements or medications I should report?
Yes. Tell your clinician and laboratory about cobalt-containing supplements, medications, and any recent exposure to industrial or medical sources of cobalt, even if you are not sure they contain cobalt.
  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