Urinary platinum (Pt) provides an indication of recent or ongoing exposure to the metal, and endogenous detoxification to a lesser extent. Significant exposure to this non-essential, precious metal is unusual except in association with chemotherapy. Pt–containing, high-gold alloys have been used in dentistry for many decades. Platinum is poorly absorbed in the gut and high-level oral exposure is unlikely. Jewelers who make high-end jewelry may be exposed to Pt.
There may have been a slight increase in environmental Pt due to the use of Pt in automobile catalytic converters, but palladium has almost completely replaced Pt for that purpose. The platinum-based drugs cisplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin are commonly used intravenously in the treatment of cancer. As a sulfhydryl-reactive metal, Pt has a very long life-time in the body. The liver and kidneys are predominant sites of accumulation and potential toxic effects.
Hair elements analysis may reveal exposure to Pt over the past 2-4 months. Chelation may acutely increase
urinary Pt excretion.
Platinum
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