Manganese, Serum Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of manganese, a metal found naturally in small amounts in the body, present in your blood serum. It helps assess potential exposure or metabolic effects of manganese.
["Manganese levels may indicate exposure risks or health concerns related to this metal."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87468-5
- Short code
- Manganese Spec-mCnt
- Synonyms
- Manganese Spec-mCnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- 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 Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like neurological issues (e.g., tremors, memory problems), liver or kidney problems, or if you’ve been exposed to manganese through work, environmental sources, or certain medications.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The serum portion (liquid part after clotting) is then tested for manganese concentration using a specialized laboratory method.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Elevated levels may suggest excessive exposure (e.g., occupational hazards, contaminated water) or certain medical conditions. Low levels are less commonly noted but could relate to dietary deficiencies or metabolic disorders.
How Is This Test Different from Other Metal Tests?
Unlike tests for iron or copper, manganese is not stored in large amounts in the body and is primarily measured in blood serum. This test focuses specifically on its concentration, not its role in enzyme function.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Chronically elevated manganese levels can affect the nervous system, potentially causing symptoms like movement disorders or cognitive impairment. While acute exposure may not always show immediate effects, long-term monitoring is important for high-risk individuals.
Short name
Serum Manganese Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are typical reference ranges for this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect manganese levels?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy