Optimization of the trace element determination by ICP-MS in human blood serum

The ICP-MS for simultaneous trace element determination in human blood has prevailed as the most suitable methodology for clinical aims because of its rapidity, detection limits and minimal sample quantity needed for analysis. As the proteic matrix is high, it is necessary to fine-tune the ICP-MS Agilent 75001 with autosampler CETAC ASX-500 and ISIS System connected, and further we have to the sample pre-treatment in order to obtain good results. The study of the results shows that the best pre-treatment for blood serum samples consists of a basic treatment by 1/10 dilution with a solution of EDTA and NH4OH, with a detection limit of the order of mu g/L and a reduction of the necessary patient sample volume to 2 mL. (c) 2007 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.