Calcium in Sternum Bone Tissue (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of calcium present in a sample of bone tissue taken from your sternum (breastbone). Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a key role in bone health and other bodily functions.
["This test helps assess bone mineral density and identify potential calcium deficiencies or imbalances in bone tissue."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36071-9
- Short code
- CT Sternum
- Synonyms
- CT Sternum
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions that could affect bone calcium levels, such as osteoporosis, bone fractures, or metabolic bone diseases. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like hyperparathyroidism or other bone-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required for this test. You may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications for a few days beforehand, depending on your specific situation. Your provider will guide you on any preparations needed.
During the Test Process
The test involves a small sample of bone tissue being collected from your sternum, usually through a procedure called a bone biopsy. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure calcium concentration.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges for calcium in bone tissue. Lower than expected levels may indicate conditions like hypocalcemia in bone or metabolic bone disease, while higher levels could suggest issues like hypercalcemia or certain bone disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal calcium levels in bone tissue can indicate underlying health issues affecting bone metabolism, such as osteoporosis, metabolic bone diseases, or conditions that alter calcium absorption and excretion. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like Paget’s disease or other skeletal disorders.
Short name
Bone Calcium Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes bone calcium levels to be tested?
How is the bone sample collected for this test?
Can this test be done without a biopsy?
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