Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
'Provoked' urine tests after chelation are misleading and not recommended.
Why it's done
- Known exposure at work or from a hobby
- Symptoms with a likely source, like certain imported products
Getting ready and what happens
- Avoid seafood for several days before arsenic or mercury urine testing, if asked.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
- Or a 24-hour urine collection.
What the results mean
High
Removing the source is the main treatment; very high levels may need chelation by specialists.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.