About the test
Magnesium is a cation found in the intracellular fluid. Its role is important in neuromuscular function, in energy production, in blood clotting and in enzyme activation. It is mainly found in the bones combined with calcium and phosphorus. Only 1% of its total quantity is circulating in blood.
Sample
Venous blood
Preparation
12hour fasting prior to testing is required. Water is allowed.
Procedure
Venipuncture
Increased values
- Dehydration
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypophosphatemia
- Hypercalcemia
- Addison’s disease
- Renal failure
- Drugs (antacids, aminoglycosides, aspirin, laxatives)
Decreased values
- Alcoholism
- Malnutrition
- Acute tubular necrosis
- Acute & chronic pancreatitis
- Hepatitis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypoparathyroidism
- Chronic renal disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Drugs (amphotericin, cyclosporin, diuretics, digoxin, contraceptives)
Additional information
- Magnesium is absorbed by the intestine and is excreted by the kidneys and the stools.
- Sources rich in magnesium are bananas, broccoli, brown rice, spinach, oats and peanut butter.