Mercury (Blood)
The Mercury (Blood) test measures mercury levels in the bloodstream to assess recent exposure. It is used to investigate toxicity from environmental, dietary, or occupational sources.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about Mercury (Blood)
What is the Mercury (Blood) test?
The Mercury (Blood) test measures the concentration of mercury circulating in the blood. Blood mercury primarily reflects recent exposure, especially to organic mercury (methylmercury), which is commonly absorbed through diet.
Mercury can enter the body through contaminated seafood, occupational exposure, environmental pollution, or accidental exposure. Once absorbed, mercury can affect the nervous system, kidneys, and immune function.
This test is commonly used in toxicology, occupational health, and environmental exposure assessment.
Why do I need a Mercury (Blood) test?
Mercury exposure may cause subtle or non-specific symptoms and can accumulate over time. Blood testing helps confirm whether exposure is occurring.
You may need this test if you:
- Consume large amounts of fish or seafood
- Have neurological symptoms without clear cause
- Experience tremor, numbness, or tingling
- Have memory or concentration difficulties
- Work in environments with potential mercury exposure
- Are concerned about environmental or dietary exposure
- Require monitoring after known exposure
The test helps determine whether symptoms or risks are linked to mercury exposure.
Benefits of the test
- Assesses recent mercury exposure
Blood levels reflect current or recent intake. - Useful for dietary exposure assessment
Particularly relevant for high seafood consumption. - Supports neurological symptom investigation
Helps explain unexplained cognitive or sensory symptoms. - Used in occupational health screening
Monitors workplace-related exposure. - Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. - Widely used in toxicology
Standard method for mercury assessment. - Guides exposure reduction strategies
Supports dietary and environmental review. - Helps prevent long-term toxicity
Enables early identification and intervention.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- Blood sample taken by a clinician
- Sample sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Mobile phlebotomist attends your location
- Blood sample taken at home or hotel
- No clinic visit required
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Low mercury
- Mercury within reference range
- UK standard (typical): <5 µg/L
- Suggests no significant recent exposure
Moderately elevated mercury
- Above reference range
- UK standard (typical): 5–20 µg/L
- May indicate increased dietary or environmental exposure
High mercury
- Significantly elevated mercury levels
- UK standard: >20 µg/L
- Suggests potentially harmful exposure requiring further assessment
Interpretation should consider diet, occupation, and clinical symptoms.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.