Calcium in Serum (Electrolyte Panel)
This test measures the amount of calcium in your blood serum, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and nerves.
["Your blood calcium levels help your body function properly, including muscle contractions and nerve signaling."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60638-4
- Short code
- PFH-CF
- Synonyms
- CF-Go Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 45
- Ref high
- 60
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 6–99 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle cramps, bone pain, or unusual fatigue. It could also be part of routine check-ups, especially if you have conditions like kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or osteoporosis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader metabolic panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Low or high levels can indicate underlying health issues, such as bone disorders, kidney problems, or hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health.
Reference range
Posterior facial height (PFH) varies by age, sex, and skeletal classification. Normal adult PFH measured from CF point (center of facial plane) ranges approximately 45-60 mm. Pediatric and adolescent norms are age-dependent and should be interpreted using growth-adjusted cephalometric standards.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should remove all metallic objects (jewelry, hair clips, dentures, earrings) from the head and neck region. Remove any removable orthodontic appliances. Patient should be in natural head position with lips in repose and teeth in centric occlusion.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum Calcium
Frequently asked questions
Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) can cause muscle spasms, numbness, or irregular heartbeat, while high levels (hypercalcemia) may lead to weakness, confusion, or kidney stones. Regular monitoring helps manage conditions like osteoporosis or kidney disease.
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
If this is part of a metabolic panel, avoid food for 8–12 hours before testing. Water is usually allowed unless specified otherwise. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy