Evaluate manganese status with our comprehensive Manganese test. This specialized analysis measures manganese levels to assess this essential trace mineral's role in enzyme function, bone health, and metabolic processes while detecting both deficiency and toxicity.
Have occupational exposure to manganese, experiencing unexplained neurological symptoms, or want comprehensive assessment of manganese status for optimal health?
Overview
The Manganese test acts like a precision scale for one of your body's most important trace minerals – think of it as checking whether you have just the right amount of this essential nutrient, not too little and not too much. Manganese works behind the scenes as a helper for dozens of enzymes that power your energy production, build strong bones, create collagen for healthy skin and joints, and protect your cells from damage like a microscopic security team.
What makes this test particularly valuable is that manganese has a very narrow "Goldilocks zone" – your body needs it to function properly, but even slightly too much can cause serious problems, especially neurological symptoms that can mimic Parkinson's disease with tremors and movement difficulties. While deficiency is rare, toxicity is more common and can happen from workplace exposure (like welding), contaminated water, or taking too many supplements. This test is especially important if you work around metals, live in an area with high environmental manganese, take supplements containing this mineral, or have unexplained neurological symptoms, helping your healthcare provider determine if your levels need adjusting through dietary changes, removing exposure sources, or other treatments.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
Symptoms
You may benefit from this test if you experience:
Bone pain or deep aching
Difficulty concentrating on tasks
Feeling tired all the time
Chronic diarrhea affecting absorption
Nutritional status assessment
Purpose
Essential for individuals with occupational manganese exposure, unexplained neurological symptoms, nutritional assessment needs, or anyone requiring evaluation of trace mineral status.
How to prepare
Special collection procedures may be required to avoid contamination. Use trace element-free collection tubes. Avoid supplements containing manganese for several days before testing if possible, and inform healthcare provider of all supplements and occupational exposures.
Understanding results
Results show manganese levels compared to normal reference ranges. Low levels may indicate deficiency requiring dietary changes or supplementation, while elevated levels may indicate toxicity requiring exposure reduction and possible treatment.
After the test
Address manganese imbalances through dietary modifications, supplement adjustments, exposure reduction if toxicity is present, or chelation therapy in severe toxicity cases. Work with healthcare providers experienced in trace element disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Normal serum manganese levels are typically 0.4-0.85 μg/L, though reference ranges may vary between laboratories and testing methods, and whole blood levels may be used in some cases.
Manganese deficiency can result from poor dietary intake, malabsorption disorders, certain medications, genetic conditions affecting manganese metabolism, or increased requirements during growth or pregnancy.
Manganese toxicity can cause neurological symptoms including tremor, rigidity, difficulty walking, memory problems, and psychiatric symptoms, often resembling Parkinson's disease in severe cases.
Treatment involves removing exposure sources, supportive care for neurological symptoms, and in severe cases, chelation therapy to remove excess manganese from the body.
Good dietary sources include whole grains, nuts, seeds, tea, leafy green vegetables, and some fruits, though most people get adequate manganese from a balanced diet.
Yes, excessive manganese supplementation can lead to toxicity, especially when combined with other sources of exposure, which is why testing and medical supervision are important.
We want you to feel bloody good—inside and out. Regular testing isn’t just about checking your current health; it helps you spot abnormal values you might not know about.
1
Book your referral
Choose the testing that suits your goals. After ordering, you will receive your referral by email.
2
Collect your sample
Easy sample collection at one of our 4000+ partner collection centres throughout Australia. Find nearest
3
Receive your results
View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.
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