Serum or plasma facial and skull mineral profile (electrochemical/nephelometric screening)
This test measures levels of key minerals and substances in your blood that may relate to bone health, facial development, or metabolic balance, including calcium, phosphorus, and other electrolytes.
["This screening helps assess mineral balance that may affect facial and skeletal growth or bone health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60595-6
- Short code
- Gl'-Sn/Face all Skull XR
- Synonyms
- Gl'-Sn/Face all Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 394995008
- 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 This Test Measures
The test evaluates concentrations of essential minerals and related substances, such as calcium, phosphorus, and possibly trace elements like magnesium or sodium, which play critical roles in bone formation, facial development, and fluid balance in the body. Some tests may also include measurements of electrolytes or metabolic markers that indirectly reflect mineral status.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to mineral imbalances, such as unusual bone growth patterns, facial deformities, or metabolic disorders. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for genetic conditions affecting mineral metabolism or developmental issues in children.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (liquid part after clotting) or plasma (liquid part after centrifugation), depending on the test method. This sample is then analyzed in a laboratory using automated techniques to measure the target substances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if it involves fasting-related measurements. Avoid certain medications or supplements that could interfere with results, if instructed by your provider.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as hypocalcemia (low calcium), hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus), or metabolic bone diseases. These imbalances can affect bone density, facial bone development, or overall metabolic health. Early detection can guide treatment to address underlying causes, such as dietary adjustments, medication, or further genetic testing.
Short name
Facial/skull mineral screening
Frequently asked questions
What does this test tell me about my health?
Will I need to take any special steps after the test?
Check with your healthcare provider about fasting requirements, as some tests may require fasting for accurate results. Generally, you can drink water unless instructed otherwise.
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