Examinations
Examinations
Aluminum is the most abundant metal in nature, but when accumulated in the body, it exhibits toxicity, particularly affecting the nervous and skeletal tissues. It is typically found in small amounts in bones, lungs, liver, and brain, but its physiological role in humans remains unclear. Aluminum intoxication can be acute or chronic. To diagnose both types of poisoning, aluminum concentration is measured in urine and blood, as it is considered to reflect the total aluminum level in the body.
- Do not eat for 2-3 hours before the test; drinking still water is allowed.
- Refrain from smoking for at least 30 minutes before the test.
- Assessment of aluminum balance in patients receiving long-term antacid therapy or total parenteral nutrition.
- Diagnosis of acute ("metal fume fever") or chronic aluminum poisoning in workers involved in aluminum production or application.
- Chronic aluminum poisoning: Peripheral neuropathy, memory and concentration impairment, sleep disturbances, emotional instability, and unexplained weakness.
- Acute aluminum poisoning: Cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, fever, weakness, and muscle pain (myalgia).
Causes of Increased Aluminum Levels in Blood:
- Acute or chronic aluminum poisoning.
- Recent intake of aluminum-containing antacids (e.g., aluminum hydroxide).
- Prolonged overuse of antacids or buffered aspirin.
- Long-term total parenteral nutrition.
- Wear and degradation of aluminum-containing prosthetic components.