Manganese in Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of manganese, a trace mineral, in your blood serum. Manganese is important for bone formation, metabolism, and nerve function, but high levels can indicate potential health concerns.
["Understanding your manganese levels helps assess exposure risks or metabolic needs."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50875-4
- Short code
- Manganese RBC-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Manganese RBC-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, neurological issues, or signs of heavy metal exposure (e.g., from occupational hazards). It may also be part of routine monitoring for certain conditions or after exposure to manganese-containing substances.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are not standardized across labs, so your doctor will interpret them in the context of your health history and symptoms. High levels may suggest exposure to manganese, while low levels might indicate nutritional deficiencies or metabolic issues.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated manganese levels can result from occupational exposure (e.g., mining, welding), certain medications, or liver/kidney dysfunction. Low levels may occur with poor diet, malabsorption, or metabolic disorders.
What Should You Do Next?
Follow your doctor’s advice based on the test results. If exposure is suspected, they may recommend lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, or further testing to identify underlying causes.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Manganese is essential for normal bodily functions, but chronic exposure or imbalances can affect nerve function, bone health, and metabolism. High levels may require medical evaluation to address exposure or organ function.
Short name
Manganese Level
Frequently asked questions
What triggers this test?
How is this test performed?
Can I prepare for this 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