This panel measures the levels of three of the most clinically important toxic metals: mercury, arsenic, and lead. These metals can accumulate in the body over time and interfere with critical biological systems, particularly the brain, kidneys, immune system, and cardiovascular system. Even small, chronic exposures may lead to subtle but meaningful effects on health, especially in individuals with poor detoxification capacity or increased sensitivity.
Mercury exists in different forms: methylmercury (found in large ocean fish like tuna), elemental mercury (from broken thermometers or dental fillings), and inorganic mercury (from some skin-lightening creams or industrial sources). Methylmercury is the most common form detected through testing and is particularly harmful to the brain and nervous system. Symptoms of excess mercury can include brain fog, memory issues, fatigue, and tingling in the hands or feet. In pregnancy, it can impair fetal brain development.
Arsenic exposure typically comes from contaminated water, rice, or certain seafoods. Inorganic arsenic—the form found in groundwater and rice—is far more toxic than the organic forms found in seafood. Chronic exposure is linked to increased risk of skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and several types of cancer. It can also worsen insulin resistance and metabolic health.
Lead remains a concern even decades after being banned from gasoline and paints. It can still be found in older buildings, soil, plumbing, and imported products. Lead disrupts brain development in children and contributes to cognitive decline, hypertension, and kidney disease in adults. No level of lead is considered truly safe.
Testing for these metals is especially important if you have neurological symptoms without a clear cause, unexplained fatigue, poor kidney function, or occupational or environmental exposure risks.
