Magnesium, Plasma or Serum
Also known as: MG
Use
This test measures the level of magnesium in the plasma or serum, which is important for various physiological functions, including the regulation of neuromuscular activity and the maintenance of osmotic pressure and acid-base balance in the body. Abnormal magnesium levels may indicate a variety of health conditions, such as kidney problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and certain metabolic disorders.
Special Instructions
The laboratory test directory advises careful specimen preparation to ensure accurate results. Serum tube must be allowed to clot completely at room temperature before separation. The specimen should be transferred into an ARUP Standard Transport Tube for analysis.
Limitations
This test may have limited accuracy in cases where the specimen contains EDTA, oxalate/fluoride, or hemolysis. Results can also be influenced by the timing of specimen collection relative to meal intake or medication usage. The test is not suitable for detailed magnesium metabolism studies and should be used primarily as a screening or diagnostic tool for abnormal magnesium levels.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 19123-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum tube to clot completely at room temperature. Separate serum or plasma from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected in EDTA, oxalate/fluoride. Hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 year |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant