Zinc
(zn)

Sample type: -

Plasma.

Urine sample.

Uses: -

• Measure the amount of zinc in the blood (or sometimes urine).

• Monitor response to supplementation.

Precautions: -

A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm and/or a urine sample (preferably 24h collection) Is provided.

Interfere factors: -

1. Diet changes.

2. Fasting samples may be preferred as plasma/serum zinc concentrations have been shown to decrease after eating meals.

Pre-analytical errors: -

• Hemolyzed sample.

• Labelling errors.

Corrective actions: -

• Correct labelling.

• Proper sampling collection.

Post-analytical errors: -

• Delay in results delivery.

• Mixing between patient’s results.

Corrective actions: -

• Delivering results on time.

• Correct identification of the patient and samples.

Reference range: -

0.66-1.10 mcg/mL.