Manganese is an essential micronutrient found throughout the body, with the highest levels found in the liver. It accumulates in tissues high in mitochondria and is a cofactor in enzymes such as hexokinase, superoxide dismutase and xanthine oxidase. Manganese is associated with bone and tissue formation, carbohydrate metabolism, reproductive processes and lipid metabolism. Manganese is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract with absorption being similar to iron absorption. Manganese is mainly excreted in bile with only a small amount excreted in urine. The human requirement for manganese is very low and even during prolonged TPN no clear evidence of deficiency has been documented. However, because of the potential importance of manganese, additives containing it have been included in TPN regimens.
The concentration of whole blood manganese is about 10 times higher than in serum therefore the manganese from contamination is proportionately less significant, eliminating some sampling precautions. Whole blood manganese may better reflect manganese stores in tissue, therefore, it is recommended to use whole blood samples for assessment of manganese status.
Lipids/Trace Metals
BMN
Ensure a separate tube is collected for this test.
If only one tube collected, and other trace metals are requested, aliquot 1 ml whole blood for manganese then separate for other tests.
Gross haemolysis OK, gross lipemia OK, gross icterus OK
Ambient 28 days, refrigerated (preferred) 28 days, frozen 28 days
7 days
6400