Cobalt poisoning is diagnosed using a combination of clinical history and test confirmation. For metal ion value measurement, inductively coupled mass spectrometry is the recommended technique of testing, and common patient specimens analyzed include serum, whole blood, or urine. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry can also be used for quantitative analysis of certain elements in biological samples. The main clinical feature of cobalt toxicity is neuropathy, which can affect both the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system. Other possible symptoms include anemia, abnormal liver function tests, vision problems, weakness of muscles, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), dysarthria (abnormal speech). Cobalt toxicity can be divided into two forms: acute and chronic. Acute exposure to high doses of cobalt can cause severe irritation of the lungs, heart, and kidneys. This type of exposure can also cause neurological problems such as headache, confusion, dizziness, numbness/pain around the mouth, tongue swelling, and trouble with coordination or balance. Lower doses over a long period of time can lead to chronic health problems such as cancer, nerve damage, and mental impairment. Patients are usually not aware of their exposure until complications appear. Therefore, prevention is the best way to protect patients from cobalt toxicity. Cobalt compounds are very toxic to humans.