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Test Code LAB53 Calcium Level, Total

Clinical System Name

Calcium Level, Total

Description

Abnormal concentrations of serum calcium may indicate malfunction of the parathyroid glands, bone diseases, carcinoma, malnutrition and malabsorption syndrome, Vitamin D deficiency, overdose with calcium-containing antacids, and renal diseases.

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 and exposure to RBC's. Method is not affected by icterus, heparin, or lipemia.

Processing Instructions

Reject due to: Age of specimen, hemolysis, prolonged exposure to RBC's

Spin: Y

Aliquot: Y

Storage location: Core 5 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

≤ 4 h

Serum or Plasma 2-8 C

≤ 22 d

Serum or Plasma -20 C or -70 C

≤ 365 d

Performing Laboratory

Seattle Children's Laboratory    

Department

Department: Core Chemistry

Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)

Synonyms

CA

Availability

STAT Performed TAT
Y 24/7 1 h

Methodology

Method: Colorimetric method by Vitros 4600

Analytical Volume:  Vitros 4600: 0.02 mL + 0.03 mL dead space                        

Reference Range

 Age mG/dL
0 - 1 W 7.5 - 11.0
> 1 W 8.7 - 10.7
Critical Levels

≤ 6.1   ≥13.9

 

Results from recumbent patients may be 3% lower. Blood collected with stasis may have calcium concentrations 15% higher.

CPT Codes

82310

Critical Values

≤ 6.1 mg/dL

≥13.9 mg/dL

 

Results from recumbent patients may be 3% lower. Blood collected with stasis may have calcium concentrations 15% higher.