Molybdenum, Blood Unit Converter

Molybdenum is an essential trace mineral that your body needs in very small amounts. It serves as a cofactor for enzymes involved in breaking down sulfur-containing amino acids, purines, and certain toxins.

A blood molybdenum test measures the concentration of this mineral in your serum or plasma. Because the body requires so little (the recommended daily intake is about 45 micrograms for adults), true deficiency from diet alone is exceptionally rare.

Testing is most commonly ordered when there is concern about occupational exposure, prolonged parenteral nutrition without supplementation, or rare genetic disorders of molybdenum metabolism.

Molybdenum is obtained entirely from the diet. The richest sources are legumes (lentils, beans, peas), whole grains, leafy vegetables, and beef liver. The kidneys regulate molybdenum levels by excreting excess amounts in the urine.