Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry: Introduction to Analytical Aspects

Abstract

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is an analytical technique that can be used to measure elements at trace levels in biological fluids. Although older techniques such as atomic absorption and atomic emission are still in use by some laboratories, there has been a slow shift toward ICP-MS, particularly in the last decade. As this shift is likely to continue, clinical scientists should be aware of the analytical aspects of ICP-MS, as well as the potential for both spectroscopic and non-spectroscopic interference, and strategies that can be employed to eliminate or mitigate these issues.

Conflict of interest statement

Competing Interests: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1

Cross section schematic of an ICP-MS (adapted from ref. 86).

Figure 2

Cross section schematic of the interface region (adapted from ref. 86).

Figure 3

Typical detection limits for common elemental techniques. AA: atomic absorption; ICP-AES: inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy; GFAAS: graphite furnace atomic absorption; ICP-MS: inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Figure 4

Calibration curve for arsenic in blood.

Figure 5

Internal standard recovery in an analytical run (whole blood samples).