At a Glance Why Get Tested? To detect excessive exposure to
mercury When to Get Tested? When you have symptoms of mercury
poisoning, to evaluate a known exposure to mercury, or to
monitor occupational exposure to mercury A blood sample drawn
from a vein in your arm and/or a urine collection Test
Preparation Needed? The Test Sample What is being tested?
Mercury is an element that exists in three forms: - Metallic or
elemental mercury (liquid or vapor) is often used in dental
fillings, some thermometers, and batteries. - Mercury can
combine with other elements such as oxygen or sulfur to form an
inorganic compound (mercury salt). In this form, it appears as a
powder or crystal and is sometimes used in topical preparations
such as skin-lightening or antiseptic creams. - When mercury
combines with carbon, it can form a variety of organic
compounds, the most common of which is methyl mercury. This form
is produced by bacteria found in soil and water. Elevated levels
are often found in large, older, predator fish s