CALCIUM IONIZED(GEM)

Message
CHEMISTRY


Test Code
CA-ION


Alias/See Also
IONIZED CALCIUM


Preferred Specimen
VENOUS BLOOD


Minimum Volume
2 MLS


Instructions
***Sample may be drawn in a blood gas syringe, or Alternatively, a special pH-balanced heprin syringe(Pico 50) which may be obtained from the laboratory.***THIS TEST CAN ONLY BE DRAW IN WRJ. NOT AT CBOC'S.COLLECT IN A PICO SYRINGE


Transport Container
HEPARIN SYRINGE OR pH balanced syringe(Pico 50)


Transport Temperature
ROOM TEMPERATURE ASAP, IF LONGER THAN 30 MINS. PLACE ON ICE.


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
unlabeled sample, clotted, delay in transport, needle attached, or air bubbles present.


Setup Schedule
DAILY


Report Available
1 HR


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
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION VT VA- CHEMISTRY 802-295-9363 EXT: 5518, 5519



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.