Cobalt (Co) and Chromium (Cr)
Chemical Pathology
Notes
The main indication for cobalt and chromium levels is in assessing wear of metal-on-metal hip replacements.
Sample requirements
For adults, blood taken into a 4mL EDTA tube
Storage/transport
Send at ambient temperature to the laboratory. If unavoidable, samples can be refrigerated overnight.
Required information
Relevant clinical details, including the reason for the request.
Turnaround times
The samples are sent to a referral laboratory for analysis with results expected back within three weeks.
Reference ranges
See most recent MHRA guidance for monitoring patients with MoM hip joints
Cobalt
Less than 10 nmol/L
Chromium
Less than 40 nmol/L
Further information
Page last updated: 15/03/2024