Electrolytes Test
1,300 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
electrolyte panel
Purpose
The Electrolyte Panel Test is a blood test used to measure the levels of key electrolytes in the body, including sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), and chloride (Cl⁻). These electrolytes play a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, muscle function, and acid-base balance.
Monitoring electrolyte levels helps assess and manage conditions such as dehydration, kidney disease, heart failure, hypertension, and metabolic imbalances. Electrolyte disturbances can lead to serious complications, including cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and seizures if left untreated.
For a full diagnostic picture, the test can be done alongside Renal Function Tests (Urea, Creatinine), Arterial Blood Gas (ABG), Calcium and Magnesium Levels, Complete Blood Count (CBC), and Glucose Test.
This test is often part of a basic metabolic panel (BMP) or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) in routine health screenings.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation is required
Samples
Collect 2ml with a minimum volume of 0.8ml of Serum or plasma in a Gel-barrier tube. Separate the serum or plasma within 45 minutes of sample collection to avoid hemolysis. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
Sodium 36-144mmol/L, potassium 3.7-5.1 mmol/L, chloride 97-105mmol/L.
Results Turnaround
Within one day of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
The Electrolyte Panel Test provides valuable insights into the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. Abnormal levels of sodium, potassium, or chloride can signal a variety of medical conditions. Some possible outcomes of the test include;
High Sodium (Hypernatremia): May indicate dehydration, diabetes insipidus, or excessive salt intake. Symptoms can include confusion, restlessness, or seizures.
Low Sodium (Hyponatremia): May be caused by kidney failure, heart failure, or excessive fluid retention. Patients may experience nausea, headache, confusion, or fatigue.
High Potassium (Hyperkalemia): Often linked to kidney dysfunction, acidosis, or use of certain medications. It can lead to muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or cardiac arrest.
Low Potassium (Hypokalemia): Common in cases of vomiting, diarrhea, or diuretic use. Symptoms include muscle cramps, fatigue, and abnormal heart rhythms.
High Chloride (Hyperchloremia): Usually occurs in metabolic acidosis, dehydration, or kidney disorders. It may present with rapid breathing, weakness, or high blood pressure.
Low Chloride (Hypochloremia): May result from vomiting, chronic respiratory conditions, or metabolic alkalosis. Symptoms can include muscle twitching, irritability, and shallow breathing.
For more on the Electrolytes Panel, read this study.