Chelation therapy is appropriate for cases of heavy metal intoxication, when diagnosed using validated testing in appropriate biological samples. Its use for other problems, such as atherosclerotic vascular or neuro-degenerative disease, remains investigational and should not be recommended. (2018 July BOD) (September 2024 COD)
These policies are provided only as assistance for physicians making clinical decisions regarding the care of their patients. As such, they cannot substitute for the individual judgment brought to each clinical situation by the patient’s family physician. As with all clinical reference resources, they reflect the best understanding of the science of medicine at the time of publication, but they should be used with the clear understanding that continued research may result in new knowledge and recommendations. These policies are only one element in the complex process of improving the health of America. To be effective, this policy must be implemented.