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Reference values of elements in human hair: a systematic review
Marcin Mikulewicz1, Katarzyna Chojnacka, Thomas Gedrange
1Department of Dentofacial Orthopeadics and Orthodontics, Medical University of Wrocław, Poland.
Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology
|October 22, 2013
Summary
Establishing reliable reference values for human hair element analysis is crucial. This systematic review highlights the need for standardized methods to ensure accurate assessment of nutritional status and environmental exposure.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Analytical Chemistry
- Human Nutrition
Background:
- Hair mineral analysis lacks standardized reference values, hindering its use in assessing nutritional status and exposure.
- Existing reference ranges vary significantly due to diverse methodological approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing reference values for elements in human hair.
- To identify the methodological variations impacting reported reference ranges.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Scopus databases.
- Inclusion criteria focused on original studies of human hair mineral analysis reporting reference values.
Main Results:
- Five studies published between 2000-2012 met the inclusion criteria.
- Reported reference ranges covered macroelements, microelements, and toxic elements.
- Significant variations in analytical methodologies (sample preparation, digestion, ICP-AES, ICP-MS) led to differing results.
Conclusions:
- Standardized procedures and validation are essential for hair mineral analysis.
- Development of detailed methodologies is required to establish meaningful reference ranges.
- Standardization will unlock the potential of hair mineral analysis as a medical diagnostic tool.
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