Update March 2025: Apologies but due to staff shortages there are currently significant delays in processing samples for vitamin analysis. It is not possible to estimate how long it will take for results to be available but we are working hard to analyse samples as quickly as possible. For any results that are required for particularly urgent patient management decisions please contact the lab.

The Scottish Trace Element and Micronutrient Diagnostic and Research Laboratory (STEMDRL) is in part centrally funded by the National Services Directorate of NHS Scotland to provide a specialist analytical and advisory service for trace elements and vitamins. The principal aspects of this service are…

• a reliable analytical and interpretative service of trace elements and vitamins for the NHS in Scotland
• analysis of water quality for Scottish renal dialysis units
• monitoring of occupational exposure to toxic elements
• research and audit aimed at improving the services offered

The laboratory is actively involved in a variety of research activities and welcomes collaborative research opportunities.

STEMDRL (formerly STEMRL) participates in the UK SAS (Supra-Regional Assay Service) Trace Element Laboratory Group and is also registered with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to provide blood lead analysis for occupational health monitoring in accordance with the Control of Lead at Work (CLAW) regulations. The activities of STEMDRL are subject to regular accreditation visits by UKAS (UK Accreditation Service).

This web-site provides a guide to the services offered, with useful background information:-