Cobalt (Co) is an essential trace element due to its well-known role in vitamin B12, important in hematopoiesis and thyroid function. The consequences of B12 deficiency are well known, including central nervous system complaints, pernicious anemia, and potentially fatal macrocytic anemia. Ingested cobalt is largely excreted in urine. Whole-blood cobalt was detected at approximately 0.17 μg/L in patients awaiting surgery. Toxicity may occur at cobalt intakes above 300 mg/d, although even therapeutic doses at 29.5 mg/d have been associated with toxicity, including goiter, hypothyroidism, and heart failure.
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What does it mean if your Cobalt result is too high?
The concentration of cobalt (Co) in this blood sample is higher than expected. Co is an integral constituent of vitamin B-12, but only constitutes about 4% of cobalamines (B-12) by weight. Elevated blood Co provides an indication of higher than average exposure to inorganic Co. Blood Co may be slightly elevated in association with very high dose supplementation with B-12.
Plants are generally low in Co and higher levels are found in meats and certain seafoods. Co is used in the manufacture of alloys for strength and heat resistance in the aeronautical, electronics and auto industries. The absorption of inhaled Co occurs rapidly at about 30% (occupational exposure), and orally between 5-45%. The oral absorption of Co and iron is competitive.
The toxicity of Co is relatively low. Nevertheless, ingestion or inhalation of large doses may lead to pathological disorders. The main clinical manifestations of acute Co poisoning (rare) are pulmonary edema, allergy, nausea, vomiting, and hemorrhage. Chronic, sub-threshold toxicity may be associated with pulmonary syndrome, skin syndrome, gastrointestinal irritations (oral), nausea, cardiomyopathy, hematological disorders and thyroid lesion.
Such effects would not be expected to be associated with therapeutic administration of methylcobalamine.
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What does it mean if your Cobalt result is too low?
Associated Symptoms and Diseases: B12 deficiency or pernicious anemia
Treatment: Vitamin B12 1000 μg
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