A reviewHair tissueanalysis:An analytical method for determining essential elements, toxic elements, hormones and drug use and abuse

ABSTRACT:Hair is formed from a cluster of matrix cells that make up the follicle. During the growth phase of the hair, metabolic activity is greatly increased, exposing the hair to the internal metabolic environment; extracellular fluids, circulating blood and lymph. As the hair reaches the surface, its outer layers harden, locking in the metabolic products accumulated during this period of hair formation, providing a permanent record of metabolic activity.Determining the levels of the elements in the hair is a highly sophisticated analytical technique, when performed to exacting standards and interpreted correctly, it may be used as a screening aid for mineral deficiencies, excesses, and/or biochemical imbalances. Tissue mineral analysis (TMA) provides the veterinarian and trainer with a sensitive indicator of the long term effects of diet, stress, and toxic metal exposure. Most deficiencies in animals are brought about by altered relationships of minerals within the body. It has become evident that either the retention or loss of minerals by the animal is equally important as the nutrients consumed from the feed itself. Both appearance and performance can be greatly influenced by adequate tissue levels of essential nutrients due to their effect upon cellular function. Minerals are necessary for several important functions in the growing and mature horse, such as, formation of structural components, enzymatic co-factors, and energy transfer. They are also used in the production of hormones, vitamins and amino acids.Tissue mineral testing can aid in measuring mineral retention; it may also help to determine which supplements and feeds are required and more importantly, what is not required in order to avoid nutritionally-induced deficiencies or imbalances.