Preferred Specimen(s): 1 mL serum
Transport Container: Plastic screw-cap vial Transport
Temperature
- Ambient 5 days,
- Refrigerated 2 weeks
Reject Criteria
- Hemolysis
- Anticoagulants other than heparin
Methodology: Spectrophotometry (SP)
Clinical Significance: Serum calcium is involved in the regulation of neuromuscular and enzyme activity, bone metabolism and blood coagulation. Calcium blood levels are controlled by a complex interaction of parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, calcitonin and adrenal cortical steroids. Calcium measurements are useful in the diagnosis of parathyroid disease, some bone disorders and chronic renal disease. A low level of calcium may result in tetany