Praseodymium is a soft, supple, silver-yellow metal. It is a member of the Lanthanides team. It reacts slowly with oxygen and forms a green oxide when exposed to air. It reacts quickly with water.
Applications of Praseodymium
Praseodymium is one of the most abundant rare earth elements, and its alloys are essential in flints for lighters. Its various compounds have different uses: in carbon electrodes for illumination, in infrared glasses, in the creation of high-strength metal used in aircraft engines, and even in-home equipment such as color televisions, lamps, and energy lamps and glasses.
Impact of praseodymium on human health
Like all rare metals, praseodymium has low to moderate toxicity. Its soluble salts are slightly toxic to ingestion, but its insoluble salts are non-toxic. Praseodymium is a skin and eye irritant.
Praseodymium is particularly dangerous in the workplace because it can be inhaled by air and can cause pulmonary embolism, especially during long exposure. When it accumulates in the human body, it can damage the liver.
Praseodymium has no known biological role.
Environmental impact of praseodymium
Praseodymium is disposed of in the environment in many places, notably by the oil industry. It can also enter the environment from the disposal of household equipment. Praseodymium gradually accumulates in soil and water, eventually increasing concentrations in humans, animals, and soil particles.
How can one determine if one has been exposed to praseodymium?
We can measure praseodymium levels in blood and most biological materials.
Determination of metals is done by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, Inductively Coupled Argon 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 diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. Between 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of 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 in relation to each individual 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.
