Test Category: Specialist Biochemistry
Investigation Name:Antimony – Urine
Alias or Abbreviation:Urine Sb, urine antimony to creatinine ratio
Accreditation:UKAS ISO15189:2022 accredited test: On scope
Intro:
Antimony is used in the production of diodes, infrared detectors, batteries, paint, glass, pottery, metal alloys and flame proof materials. It is also widely used for the treatment of parasitic infections, namely leishmaniosis and schistosomiasis. The biological activity of antimony resembles that of arsenic, although it is substantially less toxic.Exposure may be inhalational, particularly in the mining and extraction industries. Exposure to stibine (SbH3), a highly toxic gas, can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, jaundice and anaemia. Pneumoconiosis, irritation of mucous membranes and skin lesions may occur following chronic exposure. In severe cases, heart, liver and kidney damage may occur.
Consuming contaminated food and water, as well as antimony-containing medication may also lead to toxicity. Toxicity is best investigated through determination of blood concentrations, since antimony is predominantly bound to erythrocytes. Conversely, occupational exposure is best monitored by measurement of antimony in urine.
Note: Antimony is also widely used for the treatment of parasitic infections, namely leishmaniosis and schistosomiasis – blood and urine samples can be tested for monitoring purposes.
Pathology Laboratory:Trace Metals Laboratory
Requestable Seperately?Yes
Units:nmol/mmol creatinine
Minimum Sample Volume:2 mL urine
Expected Turnaround Time:14 working days.
Urgent analysis where clinically indicated may be arranged directly with the laboratory.
Test Code:USB
Sample Type:
Random (spot) urine collected into a plain white -top universal container.Urine samples collected from Papier-maché bottles or catheter bags are NOT suitable.
Complex Reference Range:<0.26 nmol/mmol creatinine
Referred to Another Laboratory?No
Storage Requirements:Store at 4 °C prior to dispatch
Posting Address / Requirements:1st class post at ambient temperature
Sandwell Health Campus,
Specialist Chemistry,
Pathology Department,
Lyndon,
B71 4HJ
NPEX / PDF Reporting Available:Yes
EQA Scheme:QUEBEC Multielement External Quality Assessment Scheme (QMEQAS)
Further information:We are a designated Supra-Regional Assay Service (SAS) Laboratory for Trace Elements.
Lead Contact Details:Dr Nicola Barlow, Consultant Clinical Scientist, SAS Director Trace Elements Laboratory
Email: nicola.barlow1@nhs.net
Email Address For Chasing Results:rwh-tr.bcpsspecialistchemistryenquiries@nhs.net
Methodology:Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Site Sample Tested:Sandwell Health Campus
Cost:Please email: bcpspathology.info@nhs.net for further details
Contact Number:Tel: 0121 507 5162
