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Lithium in Hair: Mass Concentration (24-Hour Fluid)

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

This test measures the amount of lithium present in a sample of your hair, which reflects your long-term lithium exposure over time.

Quick summary

["Hair lithium testing helps track how consistently you’ve used lithium-based medications over months or years."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50872-1
Short code
Lithium Hair-sCnt
Synonyms
Lithium Hair-sCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.6
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 1.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re taking lithium (e.g., for bipolar disorder or certain seizures) to monitor your medication levels over time. Unlike blood tests, which only show recent exposure, hair lithium provides a broader picture of your exposure history.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your hair is collected, typically from the scalp or roots. The lab analyzes it to determine the lithium concentration, which is measured in micrograms per gram (µg/g) of hair.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may shampoo your hair as usual, but avoid styling products that could interfere with the test. If you’re taking lithium, continue your usual dose unless instructed otherwise.

What the Results Mean

Hair lithium levels don’t directly translate to blood levels but can indicate whether your medication use has been consistent. High levels may suggest overuse, while low levels could indicate insufficient exposure.

Reference range

Therapeutic: 0.6-1.2 mmol/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Hair Lithium Level

Frequently asked questions

How does hair lithium differ from blood lithium levels?
Hair lithium reflects your lithium exposure over weeks or months, while blood lithium shows only your recent (usually 12–24 hour) levels. Hair testing is less sensitive to short-term fluctuations but provides a broader historical picture.
Can hair lithium levels change without my knowing?
Yes, if you’ve missed doses, stopped taking lithium, or had changes in your medication, your hair lithium levels may gradually reflect those changes over time. This test doesn’t detect acute changes but can reveal long-term trends.
Is this test painful or invasive?
No, this test is completely painless. You simply provide a small hair sample, usually a few strands from your scalp or roots, without any needles or blood draws.
  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