Aluminum, Blood

Aluminum has been found as a cause of encephalopathy in patients undergoing prolonged hemodialysis for renal failure. Patients in renal failure lose the ability to filter and excrete aluminum which consequently accumulates in the blood and eventually in the brain and in bone.

Aluminum is a heavy metal which is found naturally in the environment. Some chemical and metabolic processes in the body require heavy metals. Aluminum is not a required heavy metal, and, even in small amounts, is harmful to the human body. Aluminum exposure is inevitable from the environment, however, it is quickly removed from the body by the kidney before it can cause any damage. However, in the event of renal disease or failure and patients who are receiving hemodialysis have a build-of aluminum in the body. This build-up deposits in the brain, hair and bones, causing acute illnesses which are life-threatening, such as encephalopathy. Aluminum blood tests are useful in these patients to ensure that they do not have aluminum toxicity.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Renal failure and are on hemodialysis
• Altered mental state or Alzheimer’s
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and paleness