Role of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry in the assessment of reference values for trace elements in biological matrices

Obtaining accurate data on baseline concentrations of minor and trace elements in human organs and fluids relies basically on the development of rigorous and highly-harmonized protocols and on the availability of suitable and dependable analytical techniques. Regarding this second aspect, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry displays definite advantages, especially in terms of versatility, wide dynamic range and relative freedom from matrix effects. This analytical potential has been exploited to establish reference values and reference intervals for a number of elements in various human tissues and fluids, namely: Al, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Li, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, V and Zn in liver and kidneys; Al, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Li, Mg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Si, Sr, V and Zn in lungs; Al, Ba, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn and Zn in milk; Al, As, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Ti, V and Zn in hair; and Ca, Cu, Mg and Zn in serum.