Atomic Number:	53
Atomic Symbol:	I
Atomic Weight:	126.9045
Electron Configuration:	[Kr]5s24d105p5

Iodine is used in the production of hormones (such as thyroxine, thyroxin) by the thyroid gland, which in turn regulated the conversion of fat to energy, stabilizing our body weight as well as controlling our cholesterol levels. These hormones produced from the iodine is also needed to help form our bones, as well as keeping our skin, nails, hair and teeth in prime condition. Iodine is not stored in the body, but various items in our diet do supply iodine, so a shortage does not happen overnight.When iodine id deficient the thyroid gland enlarge (referred to as a goiter or goiter) to maximize the amount of iodine to be extracted from the blood, and if this problem is not corrected, a shortage of this hormone in the body may lead to constipation, obesity, weakness, mental slowness as well as mental problems. Goiter is not always the cause of iodine deficiency, but can in some cases be caused certain microorganisms. Iodine is also thought to help protect the thyroid from the effects of radiation, and the Polish government handed out iodine tablets to their population after
the explosion at Chernobyl.

Sample Requirements (click on cell)

Plasma/Serum

Hair

Reference range  

Analyte	Plasma	Hair
Iodine	0.24 - 0.63 umol/L	0.9 - 9.5 nmol/g

 

Method of Analysis:  High Resolution ICP/MS

Test available:  Monday - Friday 0800 - 1600 h
Turnaround Time:  Average 5-10 days
Maximum 10 days