Under normal circumstances, the usual daily dietary intake of aluminum (5 to 10 mg) is entirely excreted by the kidneys. Patients with renal insufficiency cannot excrete aluminum from their blood and are at risk of accumulation and toxicity. Hemodialysis is not very effective in removing aluminum.
When aluminum accumulates in the body, it binds to serum albumin and is rapidly distributed throughout the body. Overloading with aluminum leads to metal accumulation in the brain and bones. Aluminum deposition in the brain has been implicated as the cause of dementia that occurs in patients on dialysis. In bones, aluminum replaces calcium and disrupts normal bone formation.
Blood aluminum concentrations may be above the reference values in patients with metal prosthetic joints. Increased aluminum concentration in patients' blood with aluminum implants indicates prosthesis wear.
Determination of metals is done by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), a method that enables the simultaneous detection of many metals. Its sensitivity and accuracy are significantly better than conventional atomic absorption, with the ability to measure metals at concentrations up to 1 in 1015 (1 in 1 quadrillion, ppq)!
Important Note
Laboratory test results are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted concerning each case, family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
