Calcium in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of calcium, a mineral essential for many functions in your body, including muscle and nerve function, blood clotting, and bone health.
["Checks if your calcium levels are within a healthy range."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15329-6
- Short code
- Vmax sys p chal CA DOP
- Synonyms
- Vmax sys p chal CA DOP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-doppler
- 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
Doctors may order a calcium test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as low or high calcium levels, kidney disease, bone disorders, or metabolic issues. It can also help evaluate symptoms like muscle cramps, unusual fatigue, or frequent bone fractures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw (from a vein) or a urine sample collected, depending on the type of test. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Calcium levels can vary based on factors like diet, health conditions, and medications. Your results will be compared to standard reference ranges provided by your lab. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or follow-up to identify underlying causes.
Common Conditions Affecting Calcium Levels
Low calcium (hypocalcemia) can cause muscle spasms, numbness, or irregular heart rhythms. High calcium (hypercalcemia) may lead to fatigue, nausea, or kidney stones. Conditions like vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or certain cancers can disrupt calcium balance.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal calcium levels can signal serious health issues, such as metabolic bone disease, thyroid disorders, or kidney problems. Regular monitoring is important for patients with chronic conditions like osteoporosis, kidney failure, or those on long-term medications that affect calcium metabolism.
Short name
Calcium Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
Can diet affect the results of this calcium 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