A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Ionized calcium, Arterial

Test Code
CALCIUM, ION. ARTER


Alias/See Also
Calcium, ionized, arterial


Preferred Specimen
Arterial blood in syringe ON ICE


Transport Temperature
Transport on ice.


Specimen Stability
Stable on ice up to 2 hours.


Methodology
Electrochemical

Setup Schedule
Daily


Report Available
TAT 1 -3 days


Reference Range
4.5 – 5.3 mg/dL


Clinical Significance
The ionized calcium is determined by an ion selective electrode methodology. The result that is generated is pH adjusted. The result is empirically based on a measured pH and ionized calcium concentration normalized to a pH of 7.40. This calculation compensates for in vitro changes in pH due to loss of CO2 through specimen handling. Ionized calcium represents the true "bioavailable" calcium in the circulation. In situations where the total calcium is normal but does not fit the clinical picture, e.g., hyperparathyroidism, a determination of the ionized calcium will, many times, show an elevation in the "bioavailable" calcium component. This may be due to alterations in protein concentrations, especially albumin, that binds most of the calcium in the circulation.


Performing Laboratory
Test performed at West Roxbury Chemistry Lab
Contact: Jonathan Dryjowicz-Burek 857-203-5973


Last Updated: April 4, 2019


The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.