Calcium, Total, Serum
This test measures the amount of calcium in your blood serum, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
["Your blood calcium levels help ensure strong bones and proper nerve/muscle function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 107748-6
- Short code
- CAMELIGG
- Synonyms
- Camel milk IgG Qn IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube for serum; plasma separator tube (PST) or lavender-top (EDTA) tube for plasma
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (e.g., ELISA, chemiluminescent immunoassay, or fluorescent enzyme immunoassay)
- CPT
- 86001
- SNOMED
- 395112001
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1 mL serum or plasma
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–96 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a total calcium test to check for conditions like low or high calcium levels (hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia), which can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, or irregular heart rhythms. It’s also used to monitor certain medical treatments or conditions, such as kidney disease, bone disorders, or thyroid issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some (like calcium supplements) can affect results.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a numeric value (in mg/dL or mmol/L), but your doctor will interpret them based on your overall health and symptoms. Mild fluctuations may not require immediate action, but persistent or extreme levels may signal underlying health concerns.
Reference range
Reference range not established; results interpreted in clinical context. Negative or undetectable IgG antibodies to camel milk are typical in non-exposed or non-sensitized individuals.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any recent consumption of camel milk or dairy products, as well as any history of food allergies or immune-mediated conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Total Calcium
Frequently asked questions
What causes low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) and how is it treated?
What causes high calcium levels (hypercalcemia) and what symptoms might I experience?
Can diet or supplements affect my calcium test results?
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