Laboratory Medicine

Test Directory / Cobalt

Cobalt

EDTA

Test	Cobalt
Common Abbreviations	COB
Profile	NA
Tube type	EDTA
Clinical Indication	Some patients implanted with metal on metal hip replacements develop soft tissue reactions due to wear debris. If suspected, MHRA recommend that whole blood chromium and cobalt are measured.
Specimen Type	Blood
Sample type	EDTA whole blood
Minimum Volume	2mL
Special Precautions	No special requirements
Stability	Contact Referral Laboratory
Turnaround Time	5 - 10 days
Laboratory	SAS Trace Element Lab Surrey Research Park 15 Frederick Sanger Road Guildford Surrey GU2 7YD 01483 689978
Reference Interval	Contact Referral Laboratory
Limitations	Contact Referral Laboratory
Notes

Update for visitors

Visiting restrictions are in place at our hospitals to stop the spread of norovirus. These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The following wards are closed to visitors:

York Hospital: Ward 29 and Ward 37.

There are four exceptions only to the restrictions. These are:

For patients who are receiving end of life care

Paediatric patients (babies and children)

Maternity care

The family carers of those with dementia

We understand these restrictions can be difficult when a loved one is unwell. The restrictions will be reviewed daily and lifted as soon as it is safe. Thank you for your understanding as we try to reduce the spread of norovirus in our hospitals.