Multi-elemental analysis of human lung samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Overall, the levels reported are commensurate with ranges for those elements that had been reported previously. The data were examined for gender, smoking and occupational exposures to metals. The results show that males have higher lung concentrations of Ni, Cr, Gd, Au and Be than females, but significantly lower lung concentrations of Co, Sn, W and In. Cadmium lung concentrations were significantly higher in smokers. Platinum lung concentrations were higher in those who had undergone chemotherapy and gadolinium concentrations were predictably high in those who had undergone imaging scans. More essential elements such as Cu, Br, Fe and also Ge varied the least within lung samples from individuals whilst Be, Hf and Pt had the greatest variances. Between individuals V and Li lung concentrations varied the most, whilst Cu varied least. Analysis of the data for those who reported as having previously worked with metals showed 24 of the 48 elements determined were higher than those from those who had not reported working with metals.