Calcium Serum Test (S Calcium Test)

Serum Calcium Test

It is a simple blood test that measures the blood levels of calcium in the body. Calcium is one of the vital minerals required for proper functioning of the body. Abnormal levels of calcium may cause various symptoms and may lead to serious complications.

Calcium is required for formation and functioning of bones and teeth. It is also needed for proper heart, nerves and muscle function. Approximately 99%of calcium in the body is stored in bones and teeth and the rest circulates in blood.

High calcium levels can present in form of nausea, vomiting, frequent urination, excessive thirst, abdominal pain, appetite loss and constipation Low calcium levels can cause muscle cramps, muscle spasm, tingling in lips, tongue, fingers and irregular heartbeat.

Why is serum calcium test prescribed?

Your health care provider may ask you to undergo this test if he suspects certain diseases associated with deranged calcium levels. Calcium serum test is also done as a part of a metabolic panel where levels of different minerals are measured. This may be done as a part of routine health check-up or if there are symptoms due to metabolic abnormalities.

Increased Calcium levels are seen in conditions such as:

• Hyperparathyroidism
• Metastatic Bone Cancers
• Multiple Myeloma
• Vitamin D Intoxication

Low calcium levels are seen in conditions like:

• Hypoparathyroidism
• Malabsorption
• Renal failure
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Pancreatitis
• Magnesium deficiency

What are the components of the Calcium Serum Test?

It is of two types-total calcium and ionized calcium.

Total calcium is the total amount of calcium bound to proteins in blood and present freely. It is usually measured during this test.

Ionized calcium is the amount of calcium which is not bound to proteins in blood

Procedure and prerequisites

The sample for calcium serum test is taken from blood by inserting a small needle in your arm. A small amount of blood is then collected in a test tube or vial. You may feel little pain due to needle prick. Overnight fasting is preferred. Certain medications may interfere with the results such as calcium supplements, antacids, vitamin D, etc so discontinue these medicines before undergoing this test after consulting your healthcare provider.

Reference range

Normal range of total calcium-8.5-10.2 mg/dl

Normal range of ionized calcium-4.65-5.2 mg/dl

Reference values may vary from lab to lab