Test library
Serum Cobalt Test
A cobalt blood test measures the amount of cobalt circulating in the bloodstream, which is used to evaluate occupational exposure, metal implant wear, or possible cobalt toxicity.
Order Cobalt, Blood Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Cobalt, Blood Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $249
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The cobalt blood test quantifies cobalt in a blood sample. Cobalt is a trace element present in vitamin B12 and in many industrial alloys, including some medical implants. The test is most often used to assess exposure in metalworking, battery production, or patients with certain orthopedic devices. A healthcare provider interprets the level with your exposure history.
What this test measures
This test measures the concentration of cobalt in serum or whole blood, depending on the laboratory method. Cobalt is needed in tiny amounts as part of vitamin B12, but higher exposures can occur through inhalation or ingestion in industrial settings. Metal-on-metal hip replacements and other cobalt-containing implants can also release particles over time. Measuring blood cobalt helps evaluate whether exposure is elevated relative to reference ranges.
The sample is collected by venipuncture using trace-element collection tubes to avoid contamination. Laboratories generally analyze cobalt with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, a method sensitive enough to detect very low concentrations. Because cobalt exposure often occurs alongside other metals, related tests such as chromium or nickel may be ordered at the same time. Kidney function markers can also be included to provide context.
People typically order cobalt blood testing when they work with cobalt-containing materials, have a metal implant being monitored, or experience symptoms that a provider suspects may relate to metal exposure. The test supports evaluation and monitoring rather than diagnosis on its own. Results should always be reviewed by a qualified healthcare provider who knows your exposures and medical background.
- Cobalt concentration in serum or whole blood
- Chromium level as a co-exposure marker
- Nickel level as a related metal marker
- Serum creatinine
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Why people order this test
- Monitor occupational exposure to cobalt-containing materials
- Evaluate metal release from cobalt-containing implants
- Investigate symptoms that may relate to metal exposure
- Track cobalt levels over time for workers with known exposure
- Pair with chromium or nickel testing for a fuller metal picture
How to prepare
No fasting is usually required, but timing may matter if you have had recent occupational exposure, and the laboratory may ask you to follow specific collection instructions. A trace-element blood tube is used to reduce contamination. Report your implant history and work exposures to the collector.
Understanding your results
Results are generally available within one to three business days. The report shows a cobalt concentration that is compared with the laboratory reference range. A healthcare provider interprets the value alongside your exposure history, symptoms, and any related metal or kidney results.
Serum Cobalt Test by state
Alabama
Serum Cobalt Test across Alabama.
Alaska
Serum Cobalt Test across Alaska.
Arizona
Serum Cobalt Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
Serum Cobalt Test across Arkansas.
California
Serum Cobalt Test across California.
Colorado
Serum Cobalt Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
Serum Cobalt Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
Serum Cobalt Test across Delaware.
Florida
Serum Cobalt Test across Florida.
Georgia
Serum Cobalt Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
Serum Cobalt Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
Serum Cobalt Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a normal cobalt blood level?
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and specimen type. Your report will include the range used, and a provider can explain what your value means.
Why would a doctor order a cobalt blood test?
Common reasons include monitoring occupational exposure, checking a cobalt-containing implant, or investigating symptoms that may relate to metal exposure.
Can cobalt from a hip implant enter the bloodstream?
Yes. Some metal implants can release cobalt and chromium particles over time, which is one reason providers monitor blood levels in certain patients.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not typically required for a cobalt blood test, though you should follow any specific instructions from the laboratory.
Are other metals tested at the same time?
Chromium and nickel are sometimes ordered alongside cobalt because exposures and implant wear can involve multiple metals.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.