Uranium in biological samples can be measured by ICPMS. There are
now a few labs in the UK with this capability. Uranium levels are
very low, and at the detection limit of most assays in unexposed
individuals, so quantitation is at best difficult. Identification
of the total uranium as depleted uranium requires measurement of the
isotope ratio, and an accurate assessment of this is even more
difficult. It may not be impossible but only the brave will attempt
it! The best sample to measure uranium in is probably urine, but whole
blood assays would also be possible.
Whether it is worthwhile is a different question. I presume you are
interested in possible exposure in Iraq and possibly other areas of
conflict. I would have thought that the demonstration of a raised
total uranium would probably be sufficient.
best wishes
Barry Sampson
Dear
colleagues,
I re-call that this issue was raised quite recently but I
cannot re-call the outcome.
The question is: Can anyone test for depleted uranium? Is it
worthwhile? If so, what is the sample type.
Many thanks
Ian Barlow
Scunthorpe
UK
------ACB discussion List Information-------- This is an open discussion
list for the academic and clinical community working in clinical
biochemistry. Please note, archived messages are public and can be viewed
via the internet. Views expressed are those of the individual and they
are responsible for all message content.
ACB Web Site
http://www.acb.org.uk
List Archives http://www.jiscmail.ac.uk/lists/ACB-CLIN-CHEM-GEN.html List Instructions (How to leave etc.) http://www.jiscmail.ac.uk/
Barry Sampson
Principal Biochemist and Honorary Lecturer
Trace Element Laboratory
Clinical Chemistry
Charing Cross Hospital & Imperial College School of Medicine
London W6 8RF
UK
Phone +44-020-8383 3644
Fax +44-020-8846-7007
[log in to unmask]
Trace Element Laboratory now on the Web at:
<http://home.clara.net/sampson1/html/laboratory.htm>