IONIZED CALCIUM

Message

CHEMISTRY

Test Code

ION CA

Alias/See Also

CALCIUM IONIZED

Instructions

MAY ONLY BE DRAWN IN WRJ, NOT APPROVED FOR CBOC'S TO COLLECT. ***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.*** SEND TO LAB STAT!!!

Transport Container

PICO SYRINGE

Transport Temperature

ROOM TEMP

Specimen Stability

30 MINUTES, IF DELAYED PLACE IN ICE WATER

Setup Schedule

DAILY

Report Available

DAILY

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.