Description
In blood, calcium exists in two forms: protein-bound and free – ionized. Only the second, ionized form is biologically active. It is ionized calcium that ensures the viability of such important physiological processes as muscle contraction, proper heart function, activation of protein enzymes, and receptor interaction between cells. Its concentration changes during the day with a peak around 3-4 am; the level of ionized calcium is also influenced by the concentration of magnesium in the blood, blood pH level, parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin. Causes of hypocalcemia include renal failure, hypovitaminosis D, hypoparathyroidism, hypomagnesemia, and pancreatitis. Most often, an elevated level of ionized calcium is observed in hyperparathyroidism, prolonged immobilization, osteoporosis, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (ulcerative disease, gastritis), and oncological diseases.
Period of execution
By 00:00 the next day. The specified time does not include the day of biomaterial collection
Biomaterial type