9039. Chrome

Blood chromium analysis is used to detect a deficiency or excess of this trace element in the body.

Blood chromium analysis is a laboratory test that determines the concentration of the trace element in the blood. Chromium is an essential trace element that plays a role in the metabolism of glucose and lipids in the body. It helps insulin transport glucose from the blood to cells more effectively for energy production.

Determination of the concentration of chromium in the blood may be useful in the following cases:

• diagnosis of chromium deficiency: although chromium deficiency is rare in healthy people, it may occur in patients receiving long-term parenteral nutrition or with certain diseases. Manifestations of deficiency may include impaired glucose tolerance, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as peripheral neuropathy;
• assessment of excessive chromium exposure: this may occur in workers in certain industrial sectors, such as pigment production. Chromium at high concentrations, especially hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), is toxic and may cause damage to the skin, mucous membranes of the nose, and lungs, as well as increase the risk of developing lung cancer;
• monitoring the condition of patients receiving parenteral nutrition;
• investigation of glucose metabolism and insulin resistance: in some research studies, chromium levels are investigated in connection with the development of insulin resistance, although routine testing for this purpose is not recommended;
• assessment of the effects of chromium-containing dietary supplements: people who take chromium supplements to improve blood sugar control or lose weight may undergo this test to monitor the level of the trace element.

• For patients receiving long-term parenteral nutrition.
• For individuals with suspected chromium deficiency (in the presence of corresponding symptoms and medical history).
• For workers at industrial enterprises where there is a risk of exposure to chromium compounds.
• For individuals with signs of possible chromium poisoning (for example, skin reactions, respiratory symptoms in the setting of occupational exposure).
• As prescribed by a physician – for the evaluation of disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
• For individuals taking high doses of chromium supplements.

• Venous blood

In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules: