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 transfusions 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: [email protected].
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
Units
mmol/L