Microplastic Test

Laboratory test detecting and quantifying microplastic particles in human blood to assess environmental exposure.

Microplastic Test

Table of contents

Basic data

The PlasticTox Microplastics Screen (Arrow Lab Solutions) is an advanced laboratory analysis designed to detect and quantify microplastic particles circulating in human blood. Using specialized filtration and spectroscopic techniques, the test measures the number and size distribution of polymer particles to assess environmental exposure through food, water, air, and consumer products.

Microplastics — typically defined as plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm — have been detected in human tissues, placenta, and bloodstream. Their presence raises concerns about potential inflammation, oxidative stress, and long-term toxic effects, though the biological impact remains under active scientific investigation.

The PlasticTox screen provides an early insight into environmental toxic load and cumulative exposure. While it does not diagnose disease or toxicity, it offers valuable information for those interested in minimizing environmental pollutants and assessing potential bioaccumulation risk.

Category: Lab blood panel

Level: Advanced

Usefulness: Medium

Level

Advanced

This is an advanced-level diagnostic suited for individuals with a strong interest in environmental health and longevity. It provides awareness of microplastic exposure, particularly for those seeking to reduce pollutant load or studying detoxification and toxin-avoidance strategies.

Usefulness

Medium

The test has moderate practical value: it offers quantifiable data on environmental exposure to microplastics, but its health implications are not yet fully established. Best used as part of an environmental or toxicology-focused assessment.
Detects circulating microplastics

Measures microplastic particle concentration in the bloodstream — an indicator of cumulative exposure.

Environmental awareness tool

Helps individuals understand their personal exposure to plastics through food, water, air, or packaging materials.

Research relevance

Provides baseline data for those exploring environmental detoxification, pollution resilience, or personalized longevity strategies.

How it works

The test uses a combination of microfiltration and spectroscopic identification to isolate and characterize polymer fragments in blood samples.
Sample collection

A venous blood sample is collected and processed under sterile, plastic-free conditions to prevent contamination.

Filtration and isolation

Microplastic particles are filtered and separated based on size ranges (<10 μm, 10–30 μm, 30–70 μm).

Spectroscopic identification

Particles are analyzed via FTIR or Raman spectroscopy to determine polymer type (e.g., PET, PP, PVC, polystyrene).

Measures

The report quantifies both the total and size-specific concentration of microplastic particles detected in blood.
Total microplastic load (particles/mL)

Indicates total detected microplastic fragments per milliliter of blood — a measure of systemic exposure.

Particle size distribution

Categorizes microplastics by size (<10 μm, 10–30 μm, 30–70 μm), which may influence tissue penetration and biological reactivity.

Polymer composition

Identifies main polymer types (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, PET) and their relative proportions.

Quality control (QC)

Includes contamination controls and detection limits to validate sample integrity and accuracy.

Reliability

The test’s analytical precision depends on contamination control and the sensitivity of spectroscopic detection. Arrow Lab Solutions follows rigorous protocols, but trace-level analysis remains technically challenging.
Analytical accuracy

Reliable for relative comparisons, though exact particle counts may vary due to sample variability and background contamination.

Environmental sensitivity

Microplastic detection can be affected by air or equipment contamination; strict sample handling is essential.

Limitations

The PlasticTox test is exploratory in nature — it quantifies exposure but cannot determine direct health consequences.
Limited clinical correlation

The presence of microplastics in blood does not necessarily indicate toxicity or disease.

One-time snapshot

Reflects recent and cumulative exposure at the time of sampling; does not track dynamic changes over time.

Emerging science

Research on microplastic toxicity and biological distribution is ongoing, so interpretive guidelines are still evolving.

Frequency

Suggested cadence

Once every 1–2 years for environmental health tracking or after significant lifestyle or exposure changes.

Cost

Typical costs

Approximately €300–600 depending on laboratory logistics and report depth.

Availability

Where available

Offered through Arrow Lab Solutions and partner longevity or environmental health clinics in Europe.

Preparation

How to prepare

Avoid plastic-packaged food or bottled water for at least 24 hours before the test. Ensure clean, metal or glass-based utensils are used prior to sampling.

Interpretation

The report provides particle concentration data with interpretive commentary on potential exposure sources and accumulation risk.
Low concentration

Suggests minimal exposure or effective toxin avoidance practices; typical for low-plastic diets and filtered water use.

Moderate concentration

Indicates environmental or dietary exposure; consider reviewing plastic packaging, cookware, and air quality sources.

High concentration

Suggests significant or chronic exposure; may warrant further environmental audit and toxin-reduction strategies.

Alternatives

Heavy Metal Toxicity Panel

Measures exposure to metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium — often co-occurring environmental pollutants.

Environmental Pollutant Profile (Great Plains)

Evaluates chemical pollutants, pesticides, and plasticizers through urine and blood testing.

FAQ

Are microplastics in blood harmful?

The full health effects are not yet known. Early studies suggest potential inflammation and oxidative stress, but causality remains unproven.

Can I reduce my microplastic levels?

Yes — minimizing plastic use, filtering drinking water, and choosing glass or metal containers can help reduce exposure.

How reliable is this test?

Technically robust when contamination is avoided, but due to the novelty of this field, interpretive standards are still developing.