Serum Calcium Concentration (Total)
This test measures the amount of calcium in your blood serum, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
["Checks your blood calcium levels for potential health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39061-7
- Short code
- XR Sacrum+Coccyx 3V
- Synonyms
- XR Sacrum+Coccyx 3V
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle cramps, fatigue, or bone pain, or if they suspect conditions like osteoporosis, kidney disease, or certain metabolic disorders. It may also be part of routine check-ups or monitoring for conditions like hyperparathyroidism or hypocalcemia.
What Does a Low or High Calcium Level Mean?
Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) can cause weakness, numbness, or irregular heartbeats. High calcium levels (hypercalcemia) may lead to nausea, confusion, or kidney stones. Neither condition is always serious, but they require medical attention to prevent complications.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The serum portion of the blood is then analyzed in a lab to measure calcium concentration using standard laboratory techniques.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Abnormal calcium levels can result from dietary factors (e.g., low vitamin D or calcium intake), hormonal imbalances (e.g., thyroid or parathyroid issues), kidney problems, or certain medications. Chronic conditions like cancer or overactive thyroid can also affect calcium levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting bone health, mineral metabolism, and overall electrolyte balance. Early detection of calcium imbalances can help prevent serious health issues and guide appropriate treatment plans.
Short name
Total Serum Calcium
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal calcium level mean for my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect my calcium test results?
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