Skip to content

Manganese, Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of manganese, a trace mineral, in your blood. Manganese is involved in various metabolic processes, including blood sugar regulation and bone formation.

Quick summary

["Understanding your manganese levels helps assess potential exposure risks or metabolic imbalances."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30932-8
Short code
Manganese ?Tm Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Manganese ?Tm Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
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 muscle weakness, nerve damage, or signs of manganese toxicity (e.g., from occupational exposure to manganese dust or fumes). It may also be checked in people with certain liver or kidney conditions or those taking medications that could affect manganese levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a fasting sample, but this is rare for manganese. Bring your test results or questions to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a technique like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or mass spectrometry.

What Are the Results Mean?

Results are reported as mass concentration (e.g., micrograms per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very high or very low levels may signal health concerns that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Manganese Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Abnormal Result Mean?
High manganese levels may indicate exposure to manganese compounds (e.g., from industrial work or contaminated water) or certain liver or kidney disorders. Low levels are less common but could suggest metabolic issues or malabsorption.
Can This Test Be Used to Diagnose a Specific Condition?
Not alone—this test helps identify manganese imbalance but is often part of a broader evaluation. Symptoms like neurological issues or organ damage may prompt further testing or medical review.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Only if recommended by your doctor. Routine screening isn’t standard unless you have known risk factors (e.g., occupational exposure, liver disease). Follow your provider’s guidance.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy