Cobalt is an essential element that is a component of vitamin B12. It is required in minimal amounts for the proper functioning of hematopoiesis, the nervous system, and the liver. However, in high doses, cobalt exhibits toxic properties
- 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.
- Occupational exposure to high cobalt concentrations.
- Presence of clinical signs of cobalt poisoning.
- Routine monitoring of patients with cobalt-containing joint prostheses.
Causes of Elevated Cobalt Levels:
- Working in environments with high cobalt exposure.
- Acute or chronic cobalt poisoning.
- Presence of a cobalt-containing endoprosthesis.
Symptoms of Cobalt Toxicity:
- Pulmonary edema,
- Nausea and vomiting,
- Kidney failure,
- Lung disease,
- Allergic dermatitis,
- Thyroid dysfunction,
- Cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
Causes of Low Cobalt Levels:
- Insufficient cobalt intake from food and drinking water