Magnesium Sweat Test (Quantitative Sweat Magnesium Measurement)
This test measures the amount of magnesium found in your sweat, which can help assess how well your body absorbs and regulates this essential mineral.
["A sweat magnesium test may be used to diagnose or monitor conditions linked to magnesium imbalance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94256-5
- Short code
- Magnesium Sweat-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Magnesium Sweat-mCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.7
- Ref high
- 2.2
- Critical range
- 1 N/A – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83735
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like muscle cramps, spasms, or weakness, or if you have a genetic condition affecting mineral absorption. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to evaluate magnesium metabolism in sweat.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect sweat samples using specialized patches or tubes over a set period (often 24 hours). Avoid certain medications or dietary supplements that could affect results. Follow your provider’s instructions precisely.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare professional will apply a sweat collection device to your skin, usually on the forearm or upper chest. You’ll wear it for the duration specified, then return the sample for analysis. The test measures magnesium concentration in the collected sweat.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a mass concentration (e.g., milligrams per liter) of magnesium in sweat. Abnormal results may indicate conditions affecting magnesium absorption or metabolism, but interpretation depends on clinical context and your symptoms.
Reference range
Adult: 1.7-2.2 mg/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Sweat Magnesium
Frequently asked questions
What might cause abnormal results?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or medications affect this test?
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