Calcium
Part of bone profile. Reported as adjusted calcium (calcium corrected for changes in albumin concentration).
| Tube | 01 (SE) - Serum Gel |
|---|---|
| ID | Tests&Tubes0028 |
| Additional Information | In plasma 40% of Ca is protein bound, 10% is inorganic complexes and 50% is free (ionized) Ca. Calcium levels are regulated by PTH. HYPERCALCAEMIA: May be clinically associated with fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, bone pain, nausea, polyuria, mental changes. Renal stones (hyperparathyroidism) and acute pancreatitis may also occur. Causes - most common cause in hospitalised patients is malignancy whereas in outpatients it is primary hyperparathyroidism. Other causes include vitamin D excess, thyrotoxicosis, sarcoidosis, tertiary hyperparathyroidism, PTHrP, lithium treatment, milk alkali syndrome, thiazide diuretics, immobilisation, Pagets, Addisons (rarely), acromegaly (occasionally). Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia is a rare, benign condition that has resulted in unnecessary surgery. HYPOCALCAEMIA: May be asymptomatic or cause tetany, cataracts, depression (or other psychiatric problems). Causes include hypoalbuminaemia and chronic renal disease (no symptoms as the ionised levels are normal). Vitamin D deficiency (malabsorption or lack sunlight), renal failure and hypoparathyroidism (usually surgical). Also magnesium deficiency, acute pancreatitis, blood trasnfusions and during conditions resulting in shock. |
| Turn Around | A&E: N/A Day Case: 6 Hours In-Patient: 6 Hours Out-Patient: 24 Hours GP: 24 Hours |
| Send to | Blood Sciences Cross Site |
| Contact | For further details please contact Leeds Pathology customer services: leedsth-tr.pathologycustomerservice@nhs.net. |
| Collection Con | Avoid prolonged venous stasis. Intensive care units, renal unit, transplant unit, patients on IV heparin use lithium-heparin (Green with Yellow ring) tube. Minimum volume: 500µl serum / plasma Instructions for Lab Staff: Standard lab processing- No special requirements |
| Sample REQ | Blood |
| Ref. Range Notes | Blood Sciences reference ranges are available through the useful information and links page: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/a-z-of-services/pathology/blood-sciences/useful-information-and-links/ |
| Units | mmol/L |
| Telepath | CAA4L |
| ICE Codes | LCAA |
