Calcium, Serum or Plasma
Also known as: CA
Use
The Calcium, Serum or Plasma test measures the calcium concentration in the blood. Calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting. Monitoring calcium levels is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as hypercalcemia, which can result from overactive parathyroid glands, cancer, or excessive vitamin D intake, and hypocalcemia, which might be caused by a lack of calcium or vitamin D in the diet, parathyroid dysfunction, or certain medications.
Special Instructions
For accurate results, ensure the serum separator or plasma separator tube is used during collection. Avoid the use of powdered gloves as they can contaminate the sample.
Limitations
This test is not suitable for specimens from patients undergoing EDTA therapy or receiving Hypaque. Specimens containing EDTA, citrate, or oxalate are unacceptable due to their potential to bind calcium and interfere with the measurement. The methodology may not detect certain forms of calcium appropriately if specialized testing is needed for rare conditions.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 17861-6
- 17861-6
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum tube to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Do not use powdered gloves during collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens from patients receiving EDTA therapy or containing EDTA, citrate, or oxalate.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 3 weeks |
| Frozen | 8 months |