The presence of toxic heavy metals in our environment and our bodies has received considerable attention from the media in recent years. Lead, mercury, cadmium and aluminum are all examples of these heavy metals and although we are paying closer attention to them only now, their presence in our environment and our bodies has been causing harm for a very long time. When heavy metals accumulate in our bodies, numerous symptoms and diseases can arise. In fact, heavy metals have been linked to many chronic diseases and are often a likely contributor to their appearance.

Tests for heavy metals are therefore an important part in uncovering the underlying causes of disease.

Urine Element Analysis is an invaluable tool for the diagnosis or confirmation of toxic element burden and monitoring of detoxification therapy. For the most accurate diagnosis, a pre and post provocation test is generally recommended.

A pre–provocation urine elements analysis requires a urine collection prior to administration of a chelating agent to establish baseline elemental levels. These results reflect ongoing or very recent exposures.

The post–provocation analysis involves urine collection following oral or intravenous administration of chelating agents that mobilize elements from otherwise slowly exchanging tissue pools, for example, metals stored deep in tissues.