Description
Overview:
This test measures the total amount of calcium in the blood serum. While 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, the remaining 1% circulating in the blood is critical for keeping the heart beating, nerves firing, and blood clotting properly.
Clinical Significance:
Because the body tightly regulates blood calcium levels, abnormal results often indicate a problem with the organs that regulate calcium (the parathyroid glands and kidneys) or a side effect of medications.
- Hypercalcemia (High Calcium): May indicate hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, or excessive Vitamin D intake.
- Hypocalcemia (Low Calcium): May indicate Vitamin D deficiency, kidney failure, pancreatitis, or hypoparathyroidism.
When is this test recommended?
- Routine Screening: Part of a Basic or Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (BMP/CMP).
- Symptom Investigation: For patients experiencing fatigue, weakness, kidney stones, bone pain, or muscle cramps/tingling.
- Monitoring: For patients with kidney disease, thyroid disorder, or those taking calcium/Vitamin D supplements.
Sample Requirements:
Specimen: Serum.
Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
Preparation: Fasting is not strictly required but is often recommended (8-12 hours) to get the most accurate baseline, especially if part of a larger metabolic panel. Avoid taking high-dose biotin supplements for 24 hours prior to the test.
