Metals system

Mercury

Hg

A heavy metal that accumulates over a lifetime from environmental and dietary exposure.

What is it

Mercury — in plain English.

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal with environmental sources including certain fish, dental amalgams, and industrial exposure. Levels reflect chronic exposure burden.

Why it's measured

What Hg can reveal.

Elevated mercury has been associated with neurologic and cardiovascular effects in published research.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

< 10 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 Hg — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with neurologic and cardiovascular effects 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 Hg is typically run.

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

Related markers

Often measured alongside Hg.

Measured in

Hg 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.