Zinc, Urine Test

Zinc plays an important role in a wide spectrum of aspects including, metabolism on the cellular level, the immune system, wound and/or burn healing, and DNA and protein synthesis. This mineral is also believed to exhibit antioxidant properties that protect against aging.
Zinc is an essential element involved in a variety of enzyme systems including wound healing, immune function and fetal development. Zinc measurements are used to detect and monitor industrial, dietary, and accidental exposure to zinc. Also, Zinc measurements may be used to evaluate health and monitor response to treatment.
This urine test is used to monitor exposure to zinc, evaluate suspected nutritional inadequacy, cases of diabetes or delayed wound healing; growth retardation; or to follow therapies like oral zinc therapy used in Wilson’s disease.
Common items that may cause zinc toxicity include:
Cleaner and solventsRust removing agentsPaints and varnishesHigh zinc levels can result in symptoms like:
Chest painNausea and severe abdominal painSeizuresDizzinessVomitingCoughing and respiratory tract irritationFatigue/LethargyMuscle painNauseaFeverHeadacheDeficient zinc levels can lead to:
Delay in growthImpaired wound healingSkin lesions/Dry, scaling skinAltered senses of sight, smell and tasteImpaired immune systemHair loss/AlopeciaDiarrheaImpaired testosterone productionSeizuresHeart arrhythmiaDiarrheaMajor dietary zinc sources include:
Shellfish, especially oystersBeef and porkPoultryLegumesDairy productsAlmonds and cashewsZinc deficiency can be more prevalent in people who:
Are gastrointestinal surgery patientsHave gastrointestinal disorders like celiac or Crohn’s diseaseHave Wilson’s diseaseAre diabeticAre vegan or vegetarianHave sickle cell anemiaIndividuals who have been exposed to mercuryHave chronic liver or kidney disease