ZRT Laboratory Announces New Tests for Heavy Metal Exposure
Gadolinium, thallium, and uranium now measurable in non-invasive test
April 15, 2019 (Beaverton, Ore.) - ZRT Laboratory is pleased to announce the launch of the new Rare Elements Profile, which includes gadolinium, thallium, and uranium. These heavy metals have been requested by partners and providers, and further expand the growing selection of heavy metals & essential elements testing available through the laboratory.
Gadolinium is most commonly used in a contrast dye for patients receiving an MRI. While most of this is flushed from the body in the three days following a procedure, new research suggests that some patients may retain it, leading to potential health issues. “Gadolinium is used during most MRIs and is considered to be safe,” says Ted Zava, who led the development of the test, “but recent work has shown it can accumulate in the brain.” The new test allows testers to easily and discreetly collect a small sample of urine that is dried on filter paper, as opposed to more traditional wet urine testing methods used by other labs.
Uranium and thallium also have significant health issues associated with high exposure levels. Exposure to thallium may occur in industrial areas, and is believed to be more toxic than mercury, cadmium, or lead. Uranium exposure may come from waste produced by the nuclear industry.
Additional heavy metals tested by ZRT Laboratory include mercury, cadmium, lead, and arsenic. Also offered are beneficial elements, such as iodine, selenium, magnesium, zinc, and copper, which are needed by the body for essential functions.
ZRT Laboratory’s mission is to give health care providers a more complete look at their patients’ health to allow for more robust treatment decisions. When taken in the context of a patient’s symptoms, looking at heavy metal exposure and nutritional element levels can play a key role in uncovering underlying issues.
About ZRT Laboratory
Founded in 1998 by breast cancer researcher David Zava, Ph.D., ZRT Laboratory is a commercial and research lab known as a pioneer in the field of hormone testing. Over the years, ZRT has developed new testing methods for hormones, neurotransmitters, heavy metals and more, to ensure health care providers have the information they need to drive the best possible patient outcomes. Learn more at www.zrtlab.com.
