Trace Element: Fluoride (F) (SAAS)
Biochemistry Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
The amount of fluoride in the body appears not to be regulated, so that concentrations found in plasma are dependent on the amount ingested, the rate of excretion and on bone turnover rate. Fluoride is added to drinking water in many areas for the purpose of reducing tooth decay. Fluoride is excreted via the kidneys and therefore plasma fluoride concentrations are higher in renal failure. Acute exposure to hydrogen fluoride or fluorine by inhalation, or through the skin, leads to severe burning and systemic toxicity with marked reductions in plasma calcium and magnesium concentrations. Chronic exposure leads to osteofluorosis with sclerosis of the bones and ligaments. The ability of fluoride to promote the cacification of bone led to its use in the treatment of patients with severe osteoporosis who cannot be treated by other means.
Fluoride concentrations can be measured in either serum or urine. Prevention of osteofluorosis in workers who are occupationally exposed is best conducted using urine fluoride measurements.
Reference Range
The reference range for serum fluoride is 5.7-41.8 ug/L and for urine < 1.6mg/24h.
Sample Requirements
Serum (2 mL) or urine (20 mL + urine volume)
Storage and Transport
Stable at 4°C. Send by overnight first class post.
PDF Request Form
Download Trace Element: Fluoride (F) (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
T: 020 3299 4127
Colin Stone
T 020 3299 4128 / 4121
