Chromium - blood test - Overview

Alternative Names

Serum chromium

Definition of Chromium - blood test:

Chromium is a mineral that affects insulin, carbohydrate, fat, and protein levels in the body. This article discusses the test to check the amount of chromium in your blood.

How the test is performed:

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This test may be done to diagnose chromium poisoning or deficiency.

Blood test

Reviewed last on: 5/30/2011
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Mason JB. Nutritional assessment and management of the malnourished patient. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 4.

Mason JB. Vitamins, trace minerals, and other micronutrients. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 237.

National Institutes of Health. Chromium. Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet. Available at: http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/chromium/ Accessed June 24, 2011.

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