Description
Why It’s Done
The cadmium test is ordered to:
1. Detect Cadmium Exposure
• Common in individuals working in:
o Battery manufacturing
o Welding and metal industries
o Plastic and pigment production
o Fertilizer factories
• Also applies to people exposed through environmental contamination or smoking.
2. Diagnose Cadmium Poisoning
• To investigate symptoms such as:
o Kidney dysfunction
o Bone pain or weakness
o Nausea or vomiting
o Breathing issues
o Loss of smell (chronic exposure)
3. Monitor Occupational Exposure
• Regular monitoring for workers at risk of cadmium exposure.
4. Assess Kidney Function
• Chronic cadmium exposure can cause kidney damage; urine cadmium testing is especially useful here.
Preparation
1. Sample Type
• A blood sample (from a vein in your arm) or a 24-hour urine sample may be collected, depending on the purpose of the test.
2. Fasting
• Usually not required, unless specified by your healthcare provider.
3. Avoid Contamination
• Do not smoke or chew tobacco for at least 12–24 hours before the test.
• Avoid exposure to cadmium-containing products (e.g., jewelry, batteries, certain fertilizers) before testing.
4. Inform Your Doctor
Tell your doctor if you:
• Work in a cadmium-exposed environment
• Smoke or use tobacco products
• Take any supplements or medications
• Have kidney disease (which can influence cadmium retention
