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Serum or plasma concentration of vanadium

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

This test measures the amount of vanadium, a trace metal, in your blood. Vanadium is sometimes found in supplements, certain foods, or environmental exposures.

Quick summary

["Understanding your vanadium levels may help assess potential exposure or metabolic effects."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10128-7
Short code
ST wave MD L-V5
Synonyms
ST wave MD L-V5
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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

What Is Vanadium?

Vanadium is a rare metal that occurs naturally in small amounts in the environment. It can be found in trace amounts in foods like seafood, nuts, and whole grains, or through supplements and industrial exposure. Your body uses very little of it, and most is excreted.

Why Might You Need This Test?

This test may be ordered if you have symptoms linked to metal exposure (e.g., gastrointestinal issues, neurological concerns) or if you’ve been exposed to vanadium in work or household settings. It can also help monitor certain medical conditions where vanadium metabolism is studied.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure vanadium concentration using a specialized method (often immunoassay or mass spectrometry).

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported as a concentration in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). Interpretation depends on clinical context, not just a single value.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vanadium Level

Frequently asked questions

Could vanadium levels change with diet or supplements?
Yes, dietary sources (like seafood or supplements) or environmental exposure (e.g., industrial settings) may influence vanadium levels. Your provider may ask about recent changes in diet, medications, or work environment.
What symptoms might indicate abnormal vanadium levels?
Symptoms of vanadium exposure are rare and may include nausea, vomiting, or neurological changes if levels are significantly elevated. Most people do not experience symptoms unless there is a known high-risk exposure.
Is this test often used for routine health checks?
No, this test is not typically part of standard health screenings. It is usually ordered for specific concerns like exposure history, suspected poisoning, or research-related monitoring.
  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