Short Name: CA-ION
Sample required: Serum
Result Time: 1 Days
The ionized calcium (Ca++) test measures only the free, metabolically active form of calcium, and in some cases it should be the test of choice when blood protein abnormalities like low albumin exists or when a calcium disorder is suspected despite a normal total calcium level. This test is useful for the investigation of calcium metabolism in malignancy, hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, nephropathy with acid-base imbalance, acute pancreatitis, and emergency situations involving massive blood transfusions or serious burns. Large fluctuations in ionized calcium can cause the heart to slow down or to beat too rapidly, can also cause muscles to go into spasm, and can cause confusion or even coma.