Gold

Gold (Au) is a noble metal that occurs naturally in the environment and is used in jewelry, electronics, dentistry, and medicine. Although gold is generally considered inert and minimally toxic, under certain conditions or at high concentrations it may cause adverse effects in the body. Gold testing measures the concentration of this metal in biological samples (e.g., blood, urine) and is an important diagnostic tool when gold poisoning is suspected or when monitoring therapy with gold-based medications.

What is gold (Au)?

Gold (Au) is a yellow, shiny, malleable, and ductile metal that is highly resistant to corrosion. It is widely used because of its aesthetic properties and electrical conductivity. In medicine, gold salts were used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (chrysotherapy), but their use has declined due to side effects. People may be exposed to gold through occupational activities, medical procedures (e.g., dental fillings, implants), or environmental exposure.

Why is a gold (Au) test performed?

Gold testing is usually carried out to:

• Monitor gold-based therapy: in patients treated with gold salts for rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions, to ensure therapeutic levels and avoid toxic effects.
• Diagnose gold poisoning: when exposure is suspected due to occupational activities, environmental factors, or other causes.
• Investigate symptoms of unknown origin: that may be related to heavy metal poisoning, such as skin rashes, kidney damage, or blood disorders.
• Assess occupational risk: in individuals working with gold or gold-containing materials.