Description
Ionised calcium (Ca++) is the “biologically active” fraction of total Ca. It is of primary physiological and clinical importance in blood and other body fluids. In human calcium metabolism, the parathyroid gland regulates the concentration of Ca++. A significant decrease in ionised Ca regardless of the total Ca level may lead to an increase in neuromuscular irritability.
Indications
This test is useful in determining the active form of calcium in patients with chronic renal failure, nephrotic syndrome, malabsorption and multiple myeloma. Ca++ is increased in primary hyperparathyroidism, PTH-producing tumours, and excess vitamin D intake and various malignancies. Decreased Ca++ levels are seen in primary hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, pseudo-hypoparathyroidism, magnesium deficiency, after major surgery, trauma, burns, sepsis, pancreatitis, multiple organ failure and after haemodialysis.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml Serum Stability: 5 Days at 2-8 °C
Special Precautions
Collect blood in vacuum plain tube (vacutainer). Draw without tourniquet, Calcium, Ionized, Serum in a SST at 2-8°C. Ship upright in original collection tube. State clearly on the tube “Ionized calcium - do not open”. Avoid haemolysed samples. Do not freeze.
Normal Range
Adult: 4.25 - 5.25 mg/dL 1.06 - 1.31 mmol/L Child: 4.25 - 6.00 mg/dL 1.06 - 1.50 mmol/L
