What does the Nickel (Ni), Urine, Random test measure?

Why is Nickel (Ni), Urine, Random measured?

Nickel is the most common cause of contact dermatitis worldwide and a Group 1 IARC carcinogen in occupational settings (nasal and lung cancer in nickel refinery workers). In functional medicine, urinary nickel is assessed in patients with nickel allergy and unexplained dermatological reactions, those with metallic implants or dental work containing nickel alloys, and in comprehensive environmental toxicant screening. Dietary nickel restriction (reducing legumes, oats, chocolate, and whole grains) can meaningfully lower urinary excretion in nickel-sensitive individuals.

Reference ranges

Standard reference

<5.0 µg/g creatinine # REVIEWER FLAG: Confirm Mosaic Diagnostics reference range for urinary nickel. General population urinary nickel is typically well below 5 µg/g creatinine; ACGIH BEI for occupational nickel is 30 µg/g creatinine.

Functional medicine optimal

<2.0 µg/g creatinine (functional medicine minimal-exposure target). # REVIEWER FLAG: No standardised optimal below reference range in mainstream guidelines.

Units

µg/g creatinine, µg/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay platform. Interpret in context of the issuing laboratory's stated range.