Cobalt (whole blood)

General Information

Cobalt is found in metal alloys that are very hard, have high melting points and are resistant to oxidation. Occupational exposure occurs during production and machining of these metal alloys and has led to interstitial lung disease. Cardiomyopathy and renal failure are symptomatic of acute cobalt exposure. However, the most effective means of identifying individuals with excessive cobalt exposure is through quantification of Urinary Cobalt.

Assessment of whole blood cobalt is of limited use. The only known essential role is as component of Vitamin B12. Investigation of cobalt deficiency per se is, therefore, inappropriate and would, in any event, be technically extremely difficult. Analysis of blood cobalt is of use with respect to individuals with metallic prosthetic joints. Cobalt values can be markedly raised in some such patients, but the significance of this is unclear, apart from, perhaps, indicating degree of joint degradation.