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.
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.
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.
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
- Rips, S, Ripa, R.: Zinc and diabetes mellitus. Minerva Med., 86:415-421, 1995.
- Prasad, A.S.: Laboratory diagnosis of zinc deficiency. J. Am. Coll. Nutr., 4:591-598, 1985.
- Sandstead, H.H.: Requirements and toxicity of essential trace elements, illustrated by zinc and copper. Amer. J. Clin. Nutr., 61:621-624, 1995.
- CPT CODE:
- 84630
- COLLECTION CONTAINER:
- Trace element non-additive tube
- STATE & SHIPPING RESTRICTIONS:
- We cannot ship lab kits to NY, AK, HI, or international
- MINIMUM VOLUME:
- 0.5 mL
- NORMAL VALUES:
- Serum = 0.5 to 1.2 ug/mL
- PATIENT PREP:
- None
- PROCESS METHOD:
- The methodology is by ICP.
- PROCESS TIME:
- 5 to 7 business days
- REJECTION CAUSES:
- Moderate or excessive Hemolysis
- SPECIMEN VOLUME:
- 1.5 mL serum
- TRANSPORT CONTAINER:
- Metal-free plastic transport tube
- TRANSPORT INSTRUCTIONS:
- Refrigerate or freeze
