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HelpTest Code LAB103 Magnesium Serum
Clinical System Name
Magnesium Serum
Synonyms
MG
Sample Requirements
Specimen: Whole Blood
Container(s): Lt. Green/Mint Top Lithium Heparin, Lt. Green/Lithium Heparin Microtainer, Gold SST, Gold Microtainer, Dark Green/Sodium Heparin, Red
Preferred Vol: 1.0 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.5 mL
Notes: Method is affected by hemolysis, EDTA, Na F-oxalate. Not affected by lipemia.
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Insufficient quantity, incorrect specimen container, hemolysis
Spin: Y
Aliquot: Y
Storage location: Core Chemistry Refrigerator
Off-site collection: Avoid hemolysis. Specimen should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Spin blood and transfer serum or plasma to plastic tube and refrigerate or freeze.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Serum or Plasma | RT |
≤ 7 d |
| Serum or Plasma | 2-8 C |
≤ 7 d |
| Serum or Plasma | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 30 d |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 24/7 | 1 h |
Performing Laboratory
Seattle Children's Laboratory
Department
Department: Core Chemistry
Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)
CPT Codes
83735
Methodology
Method: Colorimetric method by Vitros 4600
Analytical Volume: 0.02 mL + 0.03 mL dead space
Reference Range
1.8 - 2.4 mg/dL
Description
Magnesium deficiency may cause weakness, tremors, tetany, and convulsions. Hypomagnesemia is associated with hypocalcemia, alcoholism, some types of malnutrition, malabsorption, chronic hemodialysis, and pregnancy. Increased serum magnesium concentrations occur in patients with renal failure, dehydration, and Addison’s disease.
Critical Values
≤ 1.0 mg/dL
≥ 5.0 mg/dL