Lab test

Mercury, Blood Test

A mercury blood test measures the amount of mercury circulating in the bloodstream.

Typical price

From $196

Results

1-3 business days

Preparation

See preparation notes below

Sample

Blood draw or sample collection at a local center

A mercury blood test measures the amount of mercury circulating in the bloodstream. Mercury is a heavy metal that occurs naturally and is also released through some industrial processes, certain fish, and a few consumer products. Blood mercury is most useful for evaluating recent or ongoing exposure, since the metal clears from blood more quickly than from other tissues. A healthcare provider may order it after a known exposure, during workplace monitoring, or when symptoms raise concern about metal toxicity. The result is a screening tool, not a diagnosis, and is interpreted with exposure history and other tests.

• Mercury (blood) The concentration of total mercury in a blood sample, used to assess recent exposure to the metal.

• People who work in industries that handle mercury or mercury-containing materials
• Individuals who frequently eat large predatory fish such as shark, swordfish, or king mackerel
• Anyone with symptoms such as numbness, tremors, or memory difficulty after a possible exposure
• People involved in a known mercury spill, broken device, or contaminated environment
• Those whose healthcare provider wants to confirm or monitor a suspected exposure

• No fasting is required for this test
• Avoid a heavy seafood meal for about two to three days before the blood draw, since recent fish intake can raise mercury levels
• Tell the lab about supplements, medications, and any occupational exposures
• A trace-element collection tube is typically used, so follow the lab's collection instructions

An elevated blood mercury level may indicate recent or ongoing exposure to mercury. A result within the expected range generally suggests that recent exposure is low, but it does not rule out long-term exposure stored in other tissues. Because mercury can affect the nervous system and kidneys, abnormal results are usually reviewed alongside symptoms, diet, and workplace history. Blood mercury testing is a screening tool, so discuss your results with a healthcare provider who can determine whether follow-up testing or further evaluation is appropriate.

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