Whole-Body Spectral Analysis for Total Mineral Content (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the total amount of minerals in your blood, which helps assess overall mineral balance and potential deficiencies or excesses.
["Understanding your mineral levels can help identify health risks or guide dietary adjustments."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89842-9
- Short code
- SPECT+CT Whole body W RNC IV
- Synonyms
- SPECT+CT Whole body W RNC IV
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- nm-spect-ct
- 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
What This Test Measures
This test evaluates the concentration of essential minerals present in your blood, including elements like calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and others. It provides a broad overview of your body’s mineral status rather than focusing on specific minerals individually. The results may be used to identify trends in mineral absorption, distribution, or excretion.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, bone pain, or irregular heart rhythms. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting mineral metabolism, such as electrolyte imbalances or chronic kidney disease.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed using advanced spectral techniques to determine mineral content. This process typically takes a few hours and is performed in a clinical laboratory.
Interpreting Your Results
Results are presented as a composite measure of total mineral concentration rather than individual values. While specific reference ranges vary by lab, abnormal results may indicate either mineral depletion or overload. Your provider will discuss these findings in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Mineral imbalances can impact nearly every bodily function, from nerve signaling and muscle contraction to bone health and fluid balance. High or low mineral levels can contribute to conditions like hypertension, osteoporosis, or cardiac arrhythmias. This test helps monitor long-term trends and guide preventive or corrective measures.
Frequently asked questions
What does a 'whole-body spectral analysis' mean for this test?
How often should I expect this test to be repeated?
Can dietary changes affect the results of 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy