What is this test?
Calcium is essential for bone and dental health, muscle contraction and nerve conduction. Blood calcium levels are regulated by the parathyroid glands and vitamin D; for this reason, it is used to evaluate parathyroid disorders, bone diseases and kidney problems.
When is it requested?
Many functions, including assessment of bone and dental health, hypocalcemia, hypercalcemia, parathyroid diseases, muscle function, and chronic kidney disease
What does a high calcium result mean?
High calcium (hypercalcemia) is most commonly linked to an overactive parathyroid gland; some medicines and supplements can also raise it.
- Dehydration or prolonged tourniquet use during the blood draw
- Excess vitamin D or calcium supplements
- Thiazide diuretics or lithium
- Overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism)
- Prolonged immobility
- Granulomatous diseases such as sarcoidosis
- Certain cancers that affect bone
What does a low calcium result mean?
Low total calcium is often due to a low blood albumin level; a true deficit may be related to low vitamin D or magnesium.
- Low albumin (the protein that carries calcium)
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Magnesium deficiency
- Chronic kidney disease
- Certain medicines (e.g., some osteoporosis and seizure drugs)
- Underactive parathyroid (e.g., after thyroid/parathyroid surgery)
- Acute pancreatitis
My result is outside the reference range. What should I do?
Calcium is interpreted after correcting for albumin, or together with ionized calcium, PTH and vitamin D. Tell your doctor about any supplements; an abnormal result is usually repeated.
Reference ranges depend on the method, age and sex; always use the range printed on your report. This information is for general guidance only; consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Sample information
- Sample type: Serum
- Tube / container: Red / yellow-top tube
- Sample volume: 1 mL
Preparation
Fasting sample recommended.
Testing and results
- Method: Spec
- Run schedule: Daily
- Turnaround time: 3 hours
Price and appointment
Add the test to your list to receive a price quote by e-mail, or call +90 850 640 07 30 / message us on WhatsApp (+90 537 301 22 14). You can have the test done at our branches or with our home blood collection service. Results can be viewed online with your Turkish ID number (or passport number for foreign nationals).