The DMPS test (dimaval test) is usually performed to detect chronic mercury exposure. As a chelating agent, DMPS (2,3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonic acid, sodium salt) binds extracellular heavy metals in water-soluble compartments in the body. Excretion is then predominantly renal. The following are determined in the urine: creatinine, mercury and copper.
Mercury (Hydrargyrum (Hg), Mercurius) is an element from the group of metals. Mercury is found in many areas of daily life. In addition, humans ingest mercury with their food. Further exposure can come from amalgam fillings. Mercury occurs in various inorganic and organic compounds.
If symptoms of poisoning occur, DMPS (2,3-dimercaptopropane-1-sulfonic acid) can be used to try to eliminate mercury.
The procedure
Material needed
- Urine
Preparation of the patient/performance of the test
- Give 20-50 ml of spontaneous urine (urine I) before administration of DMPS.
- Completely empty the bladder
- 3 mg DMPS (Dimaval)/kg body weight slowly i. v. or 10 mg DMPS (Dimaval)/kg body weight as a capsule orally on an empty stomach.
- Have 150 mg of liquid (tea, water, etc.) drink.
- Again give spontaneous urine (45 min after intravenous, 2 h after oral DMPS administration).
Interfering factors
- Not known
Normal values – urine
| After DMPS administration | <50 μg/g creatinine |
If highly elevated copper levels are present, the test should be repeated after several weeks. DMPS has a higher affinity for copper than for mercury.
Indications
- Suspected mercury intoxication (mercury poisoning).
Contraindications
- Impaired renal function
Side effects
- Increased excretion of copper and zinc
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea and vomiting
Interpretation
Interpretation of lowered values
- Not relevant to disease
Interpretation of elevated values
- Occupational exposure to mercury – recognition as an occupational disease!
- Mercury exposure from amalgam fillings.
