Mercury (Blood) (HG)

What is Mercury (Blood)?

Blood mercury measures exposure to this toxic heavy metal, which exists in several forms including elemental mercury (from dental amalgams, thermometers), inorganic mercury compounds, and organic mercury (primarily methylmercury from fish consumption). Different forms have varying toxicity and health effects.

Why is it Tested?

Doctors order blood mercury to evaluate suspected mercury poisoning, assess occupational exposure, or investigate neurological symptoms that might be related to mercury toxicity. It’s also used to monitor high-fish consumers or those with multiple dental amalgam fillings.

Normal Ranges

General guidelines for blood mercury:

Adults: <10 μg/L

The EPA reference dose suggests keeping blood mercury below 5.8 μg/L for pregnant women to protect fetal development. Higher fish consumption typically correlates with higher mercury levels.

Reference ranges vary by authority. Track yours across multiple standards with automatic unit conversions in LabsVault.

What do Abnormal Results Mean?

Abnormal results are not a diagnosis. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.

Elevated Mercury (>10 μg/L)

Higher levels may indicate:

Excessive fish consumption (especially large predatory fish)
Occupational exposure (dental, mining, industrial)
Environmental contamination exposure
Multiple dental amalgam fillings

Very High Mercury

Significantly elevated levels suggest:

Mercury poisoning requiring immediate attention
Industrial or accidental exposure
Need for source identification and elimination
Potential neurological effects

How to Track Over Time

Blood mercury reflects recent exposure (past few months) and can fluctuate with dietary changes, particularly fish consumption. Reducing high-mercury fish intake typically lowers levels within weeks to months. Regular monitoring helps ensure exposure reduction strategies are effective.

Mercury (Blood)