Determination of manganese in serum and urine by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract

Manganese is determined in serum and urine by graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectrometry after dilution (1 + 1) with distilled water. Simple aqueous standards are used for calibration. Background absorption from the matrix is decreased by attention to the heating programme, sample dilution and gas flow-rate during atomisation. Remaining background absorption is removed by a deuterium-arc background correction system. To obtain accurate results, great care is needed in collecting samples to avoid contamination. Blood is collected through a plastic cannula, because stainless steel needles introduce considerable contamination. The mean normal concentration of manganese in serum was found to be 0.58 μg l −1 (it- = 9) which is in agreement with other literature values. For urine, the mean normal concentration found was 0.7 μg l −1 (it- = 16). Patients on total parenteral nutrition with manganese supplements show elevated serum and urine manganese concentrations.