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.