Clinical significance
Cadmium is a metal normally present in the environment and in food. After occupational exposure (electroplating, paints, cadmium accumulators and batteries, etc.), cadmium rises rapidly in the blood, while in urine it rises more slowly but stays at the levels reached even after exposure has stopped. So while measuring cadmium in the blood is an excellent way of biologically monitoring recent exposure, measuring it in urine gives information on the build-up of the metal in the body. Acute poisoning affects the respiratory system (up to pulmonary oedema), the nervous and digestive systems and the kidneys. Chronic poisoning affects the lungs and kidneys (De Toni-Debré-Fanconi syndrome). It is also suspected of causing birth defects and cancer.
Clinical indications
Occupational exposure to cadmium.
Sample type
The patient must provide a blood or urine sample
Preparation
Fasting is not required.
Notes
Smoking increases the cadmium concentration. Antacids, antibiotics and anti-tuberculosis medicines can lower urine concentrations.
Levels above 10 µg/l in urine are considered to indicate damage to the renal tubules.