Chloride ion concentration in serum/plasma (electrochemical method)
This test measures the amount of chloride ions in your blood serum or plasma, an important electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and nerve function.
["Chloride levels help assess hydration, kidney function, and acid-base balance in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44985-0
- Short code
- C trach L2 IgA Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- C trach L2 IgA Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
What Is Chloride?
Chloride is a mineral found in your blood and other body fluids. It works together with sodium to help maintain the right balance of fluids inside and outside your cells. This balance is crucial for keeping your body’s systems running smoothly, including nerve and muscle function.
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like excessive thirst, swelling, confusion, or signs of dehydration. It’s also used to check kidney function, monitor conditions like heart failure or metabolic disorders, or evaluate fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on a fluid restriction, follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will clean your arm and insert a small needle to draw blood into a test tube. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The process usually takes a few minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Serum/plasma chloride
Frequently asked questions
Chloride levels that are too high or too low can cause serious health issues. High chloride levels may indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or overuse of certain medications. Low levels can lead to muscle weakness, confusion, or irregular heartbeat, often due to imbalances in fluids or electrolytes.
Normal chloride levels in serum or plasma are typically between 98 and 106 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L), though these can vary slightly by lab and individual health status. Your specific range will be provided by your healthcare provider.
Yes, diet plays a role. Foods high in sodium (like processed snacks or table salt) can increase chloride levels, while foods rich in potassium (like bananas or leafy greens) may help balance them. Always follow your provider’s advice about dietary changes.
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