Under normal circumstances, the usual daily dietary intake of aluminum (5 to 10 mg) is completely excreted by the kidneys. Patients with renal insufficiency do not have the ability to excrete aluminum from their blood and are at risk of accumulation and toxicity of aluminum. 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 the accumulation of metal 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 concentration of aluminum in the blood of patients with aluminum implants, is indicative of wear of the prosthesis.
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 the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal 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 we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
