Manganese (Mn) in blood

Manganese is an element that occurs in free form in living nature, as well as a constituent of some organic and inorganic compounds of the human body. It is essential for bone tissue formation, protein synthesis, ATP molecules and regulation of cellular metabolism. In addition, manganese acts as a cofactor of a type of superoxide dismutase (manganese), which neutralizes free radicals, and enzymes of gluconeogenesis.  This trace element enters the body with food. It is present in large quantities in hazelnuts, walnuts, peanuts, spinach, beets, garlic, apricots and some other foods. The daily requirement of an adult for manganese is 1.8-2.6 mg. Normally, only 1-3% of dietary manganese is absorbed in the intestine, while most of it is excreted in the feces.  As in the case of other trace elements, the concentration of manganese is maintained at a very low, but sufficient to ensure physiological functions. Disturbances in its balance can be acute or chronic and are diagnosed by blood manganese analysis. Food poisoning with manganese salts is extremely rare, as usually only a small fraction is absorbed in the gut. The vast majority of poisoning cases are examples of chronic intoxication associated with inhalation of manganese dust. Workers involved in ore mining and steel production are most at risk.