Calcium (Serum) with Electrolyte and Renal Function Profile
This test measures calcium levels in your blood along with key kidney and electrolyte functions to assess mineral balance, kidney health, and overall fluid/electrolyte status.
["Your blood test checks for calcium and related health markers to prevent imbalances that could affect nerves, muscles, and bones."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12507-0
- Short code
- CALC3P
- Synonyms
- Calcit sp3 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube; plasma may be collected in EDTA or heparinized tubes
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Critical range
- — – 1000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA) or Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
- CPT
- 82308
- SNOMED
- 39565009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum or plasma
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 6 months; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 500
- Icterus max
- 25
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle cramps, bone pain, or frequent urination, or if you have conditions like kidney disease, low thyroid function, or recent surgery involving calcium levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for 8–12 hours before the blood draw. Wear a loose shirt for easy access.
What the Results Mean
Calcium levels alone aren’t enough—your doctor will review the full panel (including electrolytes like potassium and sodium, and kidney markers like creatinine) to diagnose imbalances or underlying issues.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Identify
This test can help detect hypercalcemia (too much calcium) or hypocalcemia (too little), which may signal conditions like hyperparathyroidism, kidney disease, or vitamin D disorders.
Reference range
Reference range varies by stimulation protocol and laboratory methodology; typically baseline calcitonin <10 pg/mL (males) and <5 pg/mL (females); post-stimulation values vary based on agent used (calcium or pentagastrin) and timing of collectionN/A
No special preparation required; patient should remain seated for 15-30 minutes prior to blood draw to minimize postural variation; fasting is not required but may be recommended by some protocols
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Calcium and Electrolyte Balance
Short name
Calcium Panel
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
What if my calcium level is outside the normal range?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy