Magnesium
Synonyms
None
Purpose
This is a blood test that measures levels of magnesium ion and is recommended to pregnant women for preeclampsia. The test can be done to patients suspected of malnutrition, alcoholism, and diabetes.
Patient Preparation
Patient on magnesium supplement should stop several days before sample collection according to their doctors.
Samples
1 ml serum (preferred) or plasma collected in red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, or green-top (lithium heparin) tube. Do not use oxalate, EDTA, or citrate plasma. Serum or plasma should be separated within 45 minutes of sample collection. Samples are stable at room temperature for 7 days, refrigerated/frozen for 14 days.
Reference Range
1.7 to 2.2 mg/dL
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
High magnesium levels are associated with, adrenal insufficiency, diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney function loss and dehydration. Low levels of magnesium may be associated with uncontrolled diabetes, chronic diarrhea, hyperaldosteronism, hypercalcemia, kidney disease, pancreatitis, preeclampsia and ulcerative colitis.