Tellurium is a semi-metallic, crystalline, brittle, silver-white element. It usually takes the form of a dark gray powder and possesses both metal and non-metal properties. Tellurium forms many compounds corresponding to those of Sulfur and Selenium. Tellurium remains unaffected by water or hydrochloric acid but dissolves in nitric acid.
Applications of Tellurium
Tellurium is often used as an additive in steel and Aluminum, Copper, Lead, and Tin alloys. Tellurium is added to improve resistance and corrosion resistance. It is used in cast iron, ceramics, detonators, solar panels, special glasses, etc. When added to rubber, Tellurium accelerates its ripening process and makes it less susceptible to aging and the effects of oils.
Tellurium in the environment
Tellurium is found in carbon up to 2 ppm and is the primary source of this metal. Plants can absorb tellurium from the ground and can reach high levels (6 ppm), although relatively few plants that are consumed have more than 0.5 ppm.
Impact of Tellurium on human health
Tellurium compounds are rarely encountered by most people. Tellurium is teratogenic; ingesting even tiny amounts will cause terrible breath and foul body odor. Tellurium compounds can be absorbed by the body by inhalation. Effects of inhaling Tellurium include drowsiness, dry mouth, metallic taste, headache, garlic smell, and nausea. Tellurium inhalation irritates the eyes and respiratory system and can cause damage to the liver and central nervous system. Tellurium ingestion may cause abdominal pain, constipation, and vomiting.
Tellurium has no known biological function, although fungi can incorporate it in the position of sulfur and selenium into amino acids such as tellurocysteine and telluromethionine. Various organisms show a variable tolerance to Tellurium compounds.
How can one determine if one has been exposed to Tellurium?
We can measure the levels of Tellurium 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. The 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.
