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Chloride

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A chloride test measures the level of chloride in your blood, an electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and acid-base balance in your body.

Quick summary

{"Chloride is an electrolyte that works with sodium and potassium to regulate body fluids","Normal blood chloride range is typically 96-106 mmol/L","Abnormal levels may indicate dehydration, kidney disease, or metabolic disorders","The test is performed on a blood sample, usually after fasting","Results are often interpreted together with other electrolytes for accurate diagnosis"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2075-0
Short code
CL
Synonyms
—
Category
electrolyte
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Units
mmol/L
Ref low
98
Ref high
107
Critical range
80 mmol/L – 120 mmol/L
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
ion-selective-electrode
CPT
82435
SNOMED
365561006
Specimen volume
3-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 7 days, Refrigerated: 7 days, Frozen: 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–2 hours

What is this test?

A chloride blood test measures the amount of chloride, an important electrolyte, in your blood. Chloride is a negatively charged ion (anion) that plays a crucial role in maintaining the electrical neutrality of your body fluids. It works alongside sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes to regulate the balance of fluids inside and outside your cells, as well as maintaining proper acid-base (pH) balance in your blood.

Why is it important?

Chloride levels are essential for proper bodily function because they help: maintain proper fluid balance in your body, support healthy digestion (as hydrochloric acid in stomach), regulate blood pressure, and ensure normal muscle and nerve function. Your body obtains chloride primarily through dietary salt (sodium chloride) and excretes it primarily through kidneys.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for a specific period before the test, typically 8-12 hours. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are usually available within a few days.

Understanding your results

Normal blood chloride levels typically range from 96-106 mmol/L. However, the exact reference range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and testing methods used. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and other electrolyte values.

Reference range

Adult reference range: 98-107 mmol/L. Reference ranges may vary slightly by laboratory and method. Pediatric ranges differ by age.mmol/L

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient may eat and drink normally before sample collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings3

Short name

Cl

Part of panels

electrolyte-panelmale-comprehensive-healthcmpelderly-comprehensive-healthhealth-check-comprehensivehealth-check-executivefemale-comprehensive-health

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to prepare for the chloride test?
You may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, as some can affect test results.
What happens if my chloride levels are abnormal?
Abnormal chloride levels alone may not indicate a specific condition, which is why doctors typically look at multiple electrolytes together. Your healthcare provider will discuss your results with you and may recommend additional tests or treatments depending on the underlying cause.
Can diet affect my chloride levels?
Yes, your diet can significantly impact chloride levels. High salt intake can increase chloride levels, while low-sodium diets or conditions causing salt loss (like excessive sweating or vomiting) can decrease them. A balanced diet typically maintains normal chloride levels.
How often should chloride levels be checked?
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health condition. For routine health checkups, chloride may be part of a basic metabolic panel. People with kidney disease, heart conditions, or on certain medications may need more frequent monitoring as directed by their healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - ChlorideSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Electrolyte PanelSource
  3. 3
    American Clinical Laboratory AssociationSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy