1054. Calcium total (serum)
Description
Total calcium is a macronutrient that plays a crucial role in bone formation, musculoskeletal function, and the activity of the nervous and endocrine systems. It also affects blood clotting.
This test measures both the free (metabolically active) and protein-bound (inactive) fractions of calcium. It is indicated in the presence of symptoms or previously diagnosed conditions affecting the kidneys (such as kidney stones), bones, thyroid or parathyroid glands, neurological disorders, or certain types of cancer. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions. Total calcium is part of routine annual health checkups.
It is recommended to assess calcium together with phosphorus, magnesium, 25(OH)D, and PTH.
When and who needs the test?
- Diagnosis and monitoring of parathyroid gland diseases.
- Malignancies (lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma).
- Bone disorders. Chronic kidney disease.
- Gastrointestinal diseases (gastric and duodenal ulcers, acute pancreatitis).
- Cardiovascular disorders.
Biological material
- Venous blood
Preparing for a blood test
In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules:
- an important condition for laboratory tests is to take blood on an empty stomach.
- 6-12 hours before the test, you should avoid eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, and limit physical activity. Drinking...
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