Test ID: PBNA
Lead, Nails
Useful For 
Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
Detecting lead exposure
Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
Nail analysis of lead can be used to corroborate blood analysis.
Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
0.0-3.9 mcg/g of nails
Reference values apply to all ages.
Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results
Normally, the nail lead content is <4.0 mcg/g. Nail lead >10.0 mcg/g indicates significant lead exposure.
Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances
Blood lead analysis has the strongest correlation with toxicity.
Clinical Reference Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature
1. Strumylaite L, Ryselis S, Kregzdyte R: Content of lead in human hair from people exposed to lead. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2004;207:345-351
2. Barbosa F, Tanus-Santos J, Gerlach R, Parsons P: A critical review of biomarkers used for monitoring human exposure to lead: advantages, limitations, and future needs. Environ Health Perspect 2005;113:1669–1674
3. Sanna E, Liguori A, Palmes L, et al: Blood and hair lead levels in boys and girls living in two Sardinian towns at different risks of lead pollution. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2003;500:293-299
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