Metals system

Cadmium

Cd

A toxic heavy metal with major sources in tobacco smoke and industrial exposure.

What is it

Cadmium — in plain English.

Cadmium exposure occurs primarily through tobacco smoke and certain industrial sources. It accumulates in the kidneys over a lifetime.

Why it's measured

What Cd can reveal.

Cadmium has been associated with kidney damage, bone density loss, and certain cancers in published research.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 5 μg/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Cd — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with kidney, bone, and oncologic risks in research literature.

Lower

Generally considered favorable.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Cd is typically run.

Measured when exposure is suspected or in comprehensive heavy metal panels.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Cd.

Measured in

Cd is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.