Abstract
The aim of this article is to introduce readers and clarify important issues related to the analysis of trace elements in clinical samples (biological fluids, tissues) using ion chromatography (IC). IC is a convenient analytical method for the analysis of ions in samples also with a complex matrix. However, despite the advances in technology and methodology, it is rather overlooked in the routine analysis of clinical samples. The problems faced by the analyst before and during the analysis of clinical samples and their influence on the interpretation of analytical data are discussed in the following review. Examples of speciation analyses involving IC are also presented. Topics are limited to selected trace elements and all applications described here are taken from published literature.
Keywords: Biofluids, blood, certified reference materials, clinical samples, collection, digestion, dilution, ion chromatography, preservation, serum, storage, toxicity, trace elements, urine, validation.
37