Trace Element: Antimony (Sb) (SAAS)
Biochemistry Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
Antimony is a non-essential element. In the trivalent form [Sb(III)], it has numerous industrial uses, including alloy production, manufacture of fire-retardant textiles, ceramics, battery manufacture and in the semi-conductor industry. Pentavalent Sb(V) is occasionally used in medicinal products, for instance in the treatment of leishmaniasis (Kala-azar) and schistosomiasis (Bilharzia).
Although having similar properties and biological activity to Arsenic, Antimony is much less toxic. Acute exposure (ingestion or inhalation of stibine (SbH3) gas) may cause dizziness, headache, nausea, intestinal spasms. Severe acute exposure may cause organ damage, particularly heart damage which may prove fatal. Chronic exposure may produce ‘antimony spots’, pneumoconiosis and irritation of mucous membranes.
Occupational exposure is often monitored by urine analysis. In suspected toxicity cases or investigation of prolonged use of antimonial medicines, whole blood measurements may be more useful, as Sb is usually bound to erythrocytes.
Reference Range
Blood: Children: <7.39 nmol/L
Urine: Children: < 2.71 nmol/L, Adults: < 2.79 nmol/L
N.B.: Occupational exposure will lead to elevated Sb concentrations.
Sample Requirements
Blood (5mL EDTA)
Urine (20 mL in sterile universal)
Storage and Transport
Stable at 4°C for at least two days. Send by overnight first class post.
PDF Request Form
Download Trace Element: Antimony (Sb) (SAAS) Request Form
Turnaround Time
1-2 weeks
Price
Price available on application - please contact adrianturner1@nhs.net. Discounts could be available for significant workloads.
Contacts
Dr Kishor Raja
Tel: 020 3299 4127
e-mail: kishor.raja@nhs.net
