Arsenic test
Quick answer: This test measures arsenic, a toxic substance, in your blood or in a 24-hour urine collection. Doctors order it when they suspect exposure from water, work or other sources; urine is usually preferred for recent exposure.
- Sample24-hour urine or blood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes for blood; 24 hours of collection for urine
- Before the testAvoid seafood for a few days before a urine test, as it can raise the result; follow your doctor's instructions.
How the test is done
- 1Your doctor may ask you to avoid seafood for a few days before a urine test
- 2For urine, you collect all urine for 24 hours in an acid-washed container
- 3For blood, a sample is drawn into a metal-free tube
- 4The sample is sent to a lab that measures trace metals
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high level can point to exposure through drinking water, work, some traditional remedies or pesticides. Seafood contains a less harmful form of arsenic that can raise a total urine result.
Who usually has this test
People with possible exposure from groundwater, work or remedies, and people with skin changes, numbness or other symptoms that suggest arsenic poisoning.
Risks and aftercare
There is no special aftercare; a blood sample may leave a small bruise.
Names and options
Also called: arsenic level, heavy metal arsenic
Options
- 24-hour urine
- Blood
Listed by the hospital as
- ARSENIC 24 HRS URINE
- ARSENIC, BLOOD
Questions about this test
Why should I avoid seafood before a urine arsenic test?
Fish and shellfish contain organic arsenic, which is much less harmful but can raise a total urine result. Avoiding seafood for a few days helps the test show harmful exposure.
Is urine or blood better for arsenic?
Urine is usually preferred for recent exposure because arsenic leaves the blood quickly. Blood may be used in some urgent situations.
Where can arsenic exposure come from?
Common sources include contaminated well or groundwater, some industries, pesticides and certain herbal or traditional remedies. Your doctor will ask about these.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.