Cobalt, Blood

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Whole blood

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

Cobalt is a mineral that's part of the diet. It's mostly removed from the body through urine, with a small amount leaving through stool. While cobalt is necessary, too much can be harmful, especially in certain work environments. Since cobalt isn't mined in the U.S., it's usually brought in from other countries.

Biomarker summary

Cobalt, Blood

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

Details

Cobalt, Blood - Cobalt is a mineral that's part of our diet. It's mostly removed from our body through urine, with a small amount leaving through stool. While cobalt is necessary, too much can be harmful, especially in certain work environments. Since cobalt isn't mined in the U.S., it's usually brought in from other countries.

What patients is this test right for?

This test might be recommended for individuals who are exposed to cobalt in their workplace or those who have symptoms of cobalt toxicity.

Symptoms of Cobalt Toxicity:

Heart problems
Thyroid damage
Nerve problems
Skin rashes
Difficulty breathing

What type of sample is required for this test?

4 mL whole blood. The sample is collected in an EDTA (royal blue-top) tube.

Test Resources

Information on this test is currently not available through online resources. Please consult your healthcare provider for more details.

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Reference range

≤1.8 mcg/L

Health categories

Metals

Patient instructions

You should refrain from taking mineral supplements, vitamin B-12 or vitamin B complex three days before specimen collection.

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions:

Have your digital or printed requisition form and valid ID ready.
Your phlebotomist will contact you by phone to coordinate arrival.

More Info: Getlabs blood draw guide

In-office phlebotomy instructions

Specimen

Preferred Specimen(s): 4 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA (royal blue-top) tube
Alternative: NA
Minimum Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions: NA

Storage and shipping instructions