Abstract
Inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has progressed from its introduction 25 years ago to the point where it is now the method of choice for the quantitative analysis of trace elements in clinical samples. Molecular interferences in biological matrices prevented the initial designs of ICP-MS from being able to measure all elements of interest. Over the last decade, the incorporation of features such as reaction cells enabling kinetic energy discrimination, have improved ICP-MS versatility so that it is possible for a trace elements laboratory to measure the complete range of clinically relevant metals using a single instrument. The popularity of ICP-MS has been partially driven by laboratory centralisation where high sample throughput, unattended operation and multi-element capability have offset high initial instrument purchase and running costs. ICP-MS operation and maintenance does require a reasonable degree of technical expertise. Method development can also be challenging but as the technology has become more widely applied in pathology laboratories, literature and manufacturer's application notes have developed to cover the field of medical testing. When looking to provide an analytical service measuring a comprehensive range of elements on a large number of samples, the pros of ICP-MS far outweigh its cons and challenges.
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