What is the Cobalt (Urine) test?

The Cobalt (Urine) test measures the concentration of cobalt eliminated in a urine sample. Urinary cobalt reflects recent exposure, as cobalt is absorbed and excreted relatively quickly through the kidneys.

This test is commonly used in occupational health, environmental exposure assessment, and clinical toxicology. It is also relevant for individuals with metal-on-metal hip implants, where cobalt release can occur due to implant wear.

Urine testing is preferred for exposure assessment because it provides a practical snapshot of recent cobalt uptake and clearance.

Why do I need a Cobalt (Urine) test?

Cobalt exposure can occur through industrial processes, metal alloys, pigments, batteries, welding, and certain medical implants. Measuring urinary cobalt helps determine whether recent exposure has occurred and whether further investigation is needed.

You may need a Cobalt (Urine) test if you:

• Have occupational exposure to metals
• Work in metal processing, welding, or manufacturing
• Have a metal-on-metal joint implant
• Are exposed to industrial dust or chemicals
• Have suspected environmental metal exposure
• Require monitoring after known exposure
• Are undergoing metal exposure screening

Possible symptoms linked to elevated cobalt exposure may include:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Neurological symptoms
• Hearing or vision changes
• Cardiovascular symptoms (in significant exposure)
• Thyroid dysfunction (rare, high exposure)

Symptoms depend on exposure level and duration.

Benefits of the Cobalt (Urine) test

• Assesses recent cobalt exposure
  Reflects current or recent absorption.
• Useful in occupational health monitoring
  Commonly used in workplace exposure assessment.
• Relevant for implant monitoring
  Supports evaluation of metal-on-metal prostheses.
• Non-invasive testing method
  Requires only a urine sample.
• Supports environmental exposure investigations
  Helps identify contamination sources.
• Clinically recognised toxicology marker
  Used in metal exposure assessment.
• Suitable for repeat monitoring
  Allows tracking of exposure over time.
• Supports clinical decision-making
  Guides need for further evaluation.

Step by step – how the test works

You can complete Cobalt (Urine) testing UK-wide using two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic and provide a urine sample on site.
2. At-home testing (£60 extra)
   Collect your urine sample at home following provided instructions, without attending a clinic.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Low cobalt levels

Indicate no significant recent cobalt exposure.

Typical UK reference range:

• < 1.0 µg/L (spot urine, laboratory dependent)

Normal cobalt levels

Suggest background environmental exposure within expected limits.

Typical UK interpretation:

• Within laboratory reference range

High cobalt levels

Suggest recent or ongoing exposure. Further evaluation of exposure source may be required.

Typical UK interpretation:

• Above laboratory reference range

Reference ranges vary depending on laboratory methodology and sample type.