No, Vibrant does not currently offer a test for asbestos exposure.
According to the Mayo Clinic, asbestosis can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms are similar to those of many other types of respiratory diseases. A variety of diagnostic tests might be needed to help pinpoint the diagnosis, such as imaging tests (e.g., x-ray, CT) and pulmonary function tests (e.g. spirometer). Additionally, these tests must be done after an appropriate latency period between initial exposure and the onset of symptoms.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they primarily accumulate in the lungs and pleura, leading to conditions such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
The body does not metabolize asbestos into detectable urinary metabolites. Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals composed primarily of fibrous magnesium and iron-containing silicates. These fibers are chemically stable and do not undergo metabolic breakdown in the body like typical organic compounds (i.e, they do not undergo Phase 1 and Phase 2 hepatic detoxification).
However, some biomarkers related to asbestos exposure, such as oxidative stress markers, inflammatory cytokines, or asbestos body counts in lung tissue, can be used in occupational health monitoring and research.
