What is the Chromium (Blood) Test?

The Chromium (Blood) test measures the concentration of chromium circulating in the bloodstream. Chromium is a trace element that exists in different forms, including trivalent chromium (an essential micronutrient in small amounts) and hexavalent chromium, which is toxic.

Blood chromium testing is primarily used to assess excess exposure, rather than nutritional status. Elevated levels may occur due to occupational exposure, environmental contamination, industrial contact or metal-on-metal medical implants.

This test is commonly used in toxicology, occupational health and monitoring of individuals with known exposure risk.

Why do I need a test for Chromium (Blood)?

You may need this test if there is concern about chromium exposure from your work environment, surroundings or medical devices. Chronic or high-level exposure can lead to systemic toxicity affecting the kidneys, liver, skin and respiratory system.

Testing allows early detection of elevated chromium levels and supports timely intervention to reduce ongoing exposure and prevent long-term complications.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Occupational exposure (metal plating, welding, manufacturing)
• Environmental or industrial contamination exposure
• Monitoring metal-on-metal joint implants
• Kidney or liver dysfunction of unclear cause
• Skin irritation or allergic reactions
• Respiratory symptoms linked to metal exposure
• Toxicology assessment
• Workplace health surveillance

Benefits of the Chromium (Blood) Test

• Detects excessive chromium exposure
  Identifies elevated metal levels in the bloodstream.
• Supports occupational health monitoring
  Used in high-risk industrial environments.
• Assesses implant-related metal release
  Important for metal-on-metal joint monitoring.
• Supports early toxicity detection
  Enables intervention before severe damage occurs.
• Guides exposure reduction strategies
  Helps identify need for environmental or workplace changes.
• Clinically relevant toxicology marker
  Used in exposure and poisoning assessment.
• Simple blood-based testing
  Requires only a venous blood sample.
• Supports long-term exposure monitoring
  Useful for repeat surveillance over time.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for chromium concentration.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Your Results Explained

Low Levels

Low blood chromium levels are generally not clinically significant.
Blood testing is not typically used to assess dietary chromium deficiency.

Normal Levels

Normal chromium levels suggest no significant recent exposure.
This supports a low risk of chromium-related toxicity.

High Levels

Elevated chromium levels indicate excessive exposure.
This may be due to occupational contact, environmental contamination or metal implants and requires clinical review.

UK reference ranges vary by laboratory and exposure context.