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Trace element and micronutrient diagnostic and research laboratory

Published on 07 February 2024

This service specialises in the measurement and interpretation of trace elements and vitamins in clinical samples. The Scottish Trace Element and Micronutrient Diagnostic and Research Laboratory (STEMDRL) is provided by the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GG&C).

What does the laboratory do?

The laboratory provides a national analytical and advisory service for a range of nutritional and toxicological problems that involve essential toxic trace elements and vitamins.

These include:

  • copper
  • zinc
  • manganese
  • lead
  • mercury
  • cadmium
  • aluminium
  • nickel
  • chromium
  • arsenic
  • iron
  • magnesium
  • red cell thallium and selenium
  • cobalt
  • plasma copper and zinc
  • blood cobalt and chromium

STEMDRL also provides a service for the determination of vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, C, E and K).