CALCIUM, Serum

Preferred Specimen(s): 1 mL serum

Transport Container: Plastic screw-cap vial Transport

Temperature

Ambient 5 days,
Refrigerated 2 weeks

Reject Criteria

Hemolysis
Anticoagulants other than heparin

Methodology: Spectrophotometry (SP)

Clinical Significance: Serum calcium is involved in the regulation of neuromuscular and enzyme activity, bone metabolism and blood coagulation. Calcium blood levels are controlled by a complex interaction of parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, calcitonin and adrenal cortical steroids. Calcium measurements are useful in the diagnosis of parathyroid disease, some bone disorders and chronic renal disease. A low level of calcium may result in tetany