A review of silicon and silicone determination in tissue and body fluids – a need for standard reference materials

Abstract

The role of Si in nature is briefly described, especially the toxic properties of inorganic and organic Si for humans. The use of different forms of silicones in medicine and food industry is noted and potential consequences of their use are discussed. Since Si is an essential trace element there is need for establishment of the “normal” level of Si in blood, other body fluids and tissues and development of speciation of Si forms in biological samples. Numerous difficulties in the determination of Si are described and the need for SRM is stressed. The results of the determination of Si in blood of patients with Si breast implants and controls, Si in milk and blood of nursing mothers – with and without Si breast implants and extractable Si in capsules – are summarized. The obtained data reinforce the need for a reliable SRM.