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Calcium
Test Code303
CPT Codes
82310
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum collected in a serum separator tube (SST)
Patient Preparation
Overnight fasting is preferred
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Other Acceptable Specimens
Plasma collected in: sodium heparin (green-top) tube, or lithium heparin (green-top) tube
Transport Temperature
Room temperature
Specimen Stability
Serum and plasma
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days
Methodology
Spectrophotometry (SP)
Setup Schedule
A.M. Sets up 5 days a week.
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.
