Calcium

Understanding the marker

Calcium is required for bones, muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting. The value is tightly regulated by parathyroid glands, vitamin D, and kidneys.

Total calcium includes calcium bound to proteins, especially albumin. An albumin result helps interpret it. In some circumstances, measuring ionised calcium, the unbound form, gives more useful information than a calculated adjustment.

What does high Calcium mean?

A high calcium result needs medical assessment. Albumin, kidney function, related tests and any medicines or supplements help establish its meaning. The result alone does not identify a cause.

What does low Calcium mean?

A low total-calcium result is assessed with albumin, kidney function and related mineral tests. It does not by itself show the level of unbound calcium. The degree of change and any symptoms guide how promptly it needs assessment.