Skip to content

Chloride ion concentration in serum (measured by ion-selective electrode)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of chloride, a key electrolyte, in your blood serum. Chloride helps maintain proper fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function.

Quick summary

["Chloride levels help diagnose conditions like dehydration, kidney problems, or metabolic imbalances."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90361-7
Short code
C trach L1 IgA Titr Ser IA
Synonyms
C trach L1 IgA Titr Ser IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for electrolyte imbalances, monitor conditions like kidney disease, heart issues, or acid-base disorders, or evaluate symptoms such as excessive thirst, confusion, or muscle weakness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your provider specifies it, but this is not always required for chloride testing alone.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm, using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is quick and usually painless.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, but exact values can vary by lab. Low chloride (hypochloremia) may indicate dehydration, vomiting, or kidney problems, while high chloride (hyperchloremia) could signal conditions like kidney failure or metabolic alkalosis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Chloride

Frequently asked questions

What causes low chloride levels?
Low chloride levels can result from excessive vomiting or diarrhea, kidney issues, excessive sweating, or certain medications. It may also occur in cases of severe dehydration or metabolic alkalosis.
What causes high chloride levels?
High chloride levels may be linked to kidney disease, severe dehydration, metabolic alkalosis, or conditions that disrupt fluid balance, such as burns or prolonged vomiting.
Can diet affect chloride test results?
Dietary changes alone typically won’t alter chloride test results, but very high or very low salt intake over time could influence long-term electrolyte balance. Follow your provider’s advice for any dietary restrictions related to this test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy