Erbium is a soft, supple, shiny, silver metal. It is very stable in air, reacts slowly with oxygen and water, and dissolves in acids.
Applications of Erbium
Some quantities of erbium are added to metal alloys such as Vanadium because it reduces their hardness, making them more functional. As it absorbs infrared light, Erbium is added to special safety goggles used by welders and workers in the glass industry. It is also used in photo filters and elsewhere.
Erbium is never found as a free element in nature. It is found in minerals that contain rare earth elements and is one of the most abundant rare earth elements.
Impact of Erbium on human health
Erbium has no biological role, although it has been observed to stimulate metabolism. It is difficult to determine the amount of Erbium in the human body. People consume 1 mg of Erbium per year on average. Its levels are higher in the bones, while smaller amounts are found in the liver and kidneys.
Erbium does not appear to pose an environmental threat to plants and animals.
How can one determine if one has been exposed to Erbium?
We can measure Erbium levels in the blood and most biological materials.
Determination of metals is done by ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), a method that enables the simultaneous detection of many metals. Its sensitivity and accuracy are significantly better than conventional atomic absorption, with the ability to measure metals at concentrations up to 1 in 1015 (1 in 1 quadrillion, ppq)!
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correctly interpreting laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted solely based on the numerical result of a single analysis. They should be interpreted based on each case, family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
