Zinc, RBC

Zinc, RBC

Zinc is second to iron as being the most abundant trace mineral present in the body. It is an important component of nearly 300 enzymes in different species. It is found in high concentrations in the prostate, semen, liver, kidney, hippocampus, retina, bone and muscle.

Zinc is important in DNA and protein synthesis, fertility, skin growth, healing, taste buds, protein digestion, carbon dioxide removal, disease resistance, immunity, etc. Too much calcium, copper or fiber in the diet, or the use of oral contraceptives may increase the need for zinc.

Deficiency symptoms of zinc may include stunted growth, poor wound healing, loss of taste and smell, sterility, impotence, prostate problems, lower disease resistance, acne or skin problems and may contribute to liver, kidney and heart disease.

The RDA for zinc is 11 mg/day. It is found in oysters, herring, clams, wheat germ, bran, oatmeal, liver, nuts, beef, lamb, chicken, peas and carrots.

Specimen required is outlined in each specific segment: urine, RBC, serum, hair.

Doctors who wish to order kits, please call our lab directly to set up an account before ordering. 316-684-7784

Process time: 5 to 7 business days

Process method: The methodology is by ICP.

CPT code: 84630

Special instructions: None

Rejection causes: Specimen clotted.

Patient prep: None

Specimen volume: 1.5 mL Heparin RBC, washed 1x

Minimum volume: 0.5 mL

Collection container: Heparin tube

Transport container: Metal-free plastic transport tube

Transport instructions: Refrigerate or freeze

Collection instructions: Click here for PDF

Normal values: RBC = 8.6 to 15.8 ug/mL

Reference one: Rips, S, Ripa, R.: Zinc and diabetes mellitus. Minerva Med., 86:415-421, 1995.

Reference two: Prasad, A.S.: Laboratory diagnosis of zinc deficiency. J. Am. Coll. Nutr., 4:591-598, 1985.

Reference three: Sandstead, H.H.: Requirements and toxicity of essential trace elements, illustrated by zinc and copper. Amer. J. Clin. Nutr., 61:621-624, 1995.