Ordering the Heavy Metal Urine Analysis with Gadolinium (24hrs) | Doctor’s Data | Canada
This urine analysis helps check for the presence and amount of heavy metals, including gadolinium, in the body over a 24-hour period. It is often used after exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents during MRI scans, or when symptoms suggest possible metal buildup. Interestingly, gadolinium can remain in the body for months or even years after an MRI, even in people with normal kidney function.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Measure levels of toxic metals, including gadolinium, aluminum, lead, and mercury
- Monitor how well your body clears gadolinium after MRI contrast exposure
- Support decisions about chelation or detoxification therapies
- Track changes in metal levels over time for ongoing monitoring
- Identify possible sources of unexplained symptoms linked to metal exposure
Who Should Consider Heavy Metal and Gadolinium Exposure Testing
People who have had repeated MRI scans with contrast, work in industries with metal exposure, or experience unexplained symptoms like skin changes, joint pain, or persistent fatigue may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has had several MRI scans with contrast and now notices new skin thickening or pain in their arms might want to check for gadolinium buildup.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- People with a history of kidney problems who have received MRI contrast
- Those with unexplained neurological symptoms after medical imaging
- Workers in manufacturing, mining, or welding industries
- People with known allergies or reactions to MRI contrast agents
- Those who have unexplained changes in taste or smell after a medical procedure
Testing for heavy metals and gadolinium can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms, guide treatment, and track how well your body removes these substances. Delaying this test could mean missing early signs of metal buildup, which may make it harder to manage symptoms or prevent further exposure.
Preparing for Urine Metal and Gadolinium Screening
Fasting is not required for this 24-hour urine collection test, so you can eat and drink as usual. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected and handled correctly for the best results.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Heavy Metal Urine Analysis with Gadolinium (24hrs)
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Measures | Low and High Levels of This Marker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toxic Metals | |||
| Aluminum | <7 μg/24hr | Aluminum is a metal found in food, water, and some medications. This test checks for excess aluminum in the urine, which can build up after exposure. | High levels mean possible recent or ongoing exposure to aluminum, which may affect the nervous system.
Low levels mean little or no recent exposure. |
| Antimony | <1 μg/24hr | Antimony is used in batteries, flame retardants, and some industrial processes. The test measures how much antimony is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean increased exposure, often from industrial sources.
Low levels mean minimal or no exposure. |
| Arsenic | <50 μg/24hr | Arsenic is a toxic element found in contaminated water, seafood, and some pesticides. This test checks for recent exposure and how well the body is removing it. | High levels mean recent or ongoing exposure, which can affect skin, nerves, and digestion.
Low levels mean little or no recent exposure. |
| Barium | <2 μg/24hr | Barium is used in medical imaging and some industries. The test shows if barium is being cleared from the body after exposure. | High levels mean recent exposure, which may affect the heart and muscles.
Low levels mean no significant exposure. |
| Beryllium | <1 μg/24hr | Beryllium is found in electronics and aerospace industries. This test checks for exposure and removal through urine. | High levels mean possible workplace or environmental exposure.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Bismuth | <7 μg/24hr | Bismuth is used in some medicines and cosmetics. The test measures how much is being excreted after exposure. | High levels mean recent use of bismuth-containing products.
Low levels mean no significant exposure. |
| Cadmium | <2 μg/24hr | Cadmium is found in batteries, tobacco smoke, and some foods. This test checks for recent or ongoing exposure and how well the body is clearing it. | High levels mean exposure from smoking, food, or work environments.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Cesium | <10 μg/24hr | Cesium is a rare metal found in some industrial settings. The test shows if there has been recent exposure. | High levels mean possible industrial or environmental exposure.
Low levels mean no significant exposure. |
| Gadolinium | <1 μg/24hr (post-MRI may be higher) | Gadolinium is used in MRI contrast agents. This test checks for how much gadolinium is being cleared from the body after an MRI scan. | High levels mean recent MRI contrast exposure or slow clearance, which may cause skin, joint, or nerve symptoms.
Low levels mean little or no recent exposure or good clearance. |
| Lead | <2 μg/24hr | Lead is a toxic metal found in old paint, pipes, and some jobs. The test measures how much lead is being removed from the body. | High levels mean recent or ongoing exposure, which can affect nerves and blood.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Mercury | <10 μg/24hr | Mercury is found in fish, dental fillings, and some industries. This test checks for recent exposure and how well the body is clearing it. | High levels mean recent exposure, which may affect nerves and kidneys.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Nickel | <5 μg/24hr | Nickel is used in coins, jewelry, and some foods. The test measures how much nickel is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean recent exposure, which may cause skin or breathing symptoms.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Palladium | <1 μg/24hr | Palladium is used in dental work and electronics. This test checks for recent exposure and removal through urine. | High levels mean recent dental or industrial exposure.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Platinum | <1 μg/24hr | Platinum is found in jewelry, car parts, and some cancer treatments. The test measures how much is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean recent exposure, possibly from medical or industrial sources.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Tellurium | <1 μg/24hr | Tellurium is used in electronics and solar panels. This test checks for recent exposure and removal through urine. | High levels mean possible workplace or environmental exposure.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Thallium | <1 μg/24hr | Thallium is a toxic metal found in some rodenticides and electronics. The test measures how much is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean recent or ongoing exposure, which can affect nerves and hair.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Thorium | <1 μg/24hr | Thorium is a radioactive metal used in some industries. This test checks for recent exposure and removal through urine. | High levels mean possible industrial or environmental exposure.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Tin | <5 μg/24hr | Tin is found in cans, solder, and some pesticides. The test measures how much tin is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean recent exposure, which may cause stomach or nerve symptoms.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Tungsten | <1 μg/24hr | Tungsten is used in light bulbs and electronics. This test checks for recent exposure and removal through urine. | High levels mean possible workplace or environmental exposure.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
| Uranium | <1 μg/24hr | Uranium is a radioactive metal found in some water sources and industries. The test measures how much is being cleared from the body. | High levels mean recent or ongoing exposure, which can affect the kidneys.
Low levels mean little or no exposure. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Heavy Metal Urine Analysis with Gadolinium (24hrs) FAQ
Is there Heavy Metal Urine Analysis with Gadolinium (24hrs) testing near me?
This is a test kit you can collect at home or at a local draw site—see the draw location link at the top of the page. Since symptoms from heavy metal or gadolinium exposure can be subtle and ongoing, having a convenient collection option helps you get tested quickly and easily.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed covers standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but draw fees may apply if you use a local collection site. Testing for heavy metals and gadolinium can help you find out if exposure is causing symptoms, so you can address the problem sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3 to 6 months if you have ongoing exposure or are following a detoxification plan. Regular monitoring helps track changes in metal levels and shows how well your body is clearing these substances.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), which is highly specific and sensitive for detecting metals in urine. Specificity is 99% and sensitivity is 98%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- You will be responsible for the shipping costs of mailing the kit to Canada and the returning of the samples to the lab.
- Use a 2-day return mailer when sending the samples to the lab.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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