Test Code 1038
Test Details
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that is vital for energy production, muscle contraction, nerve function, and the maintenance of bone health.
Methodology
Colormetric
Patient Preparation
None
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum (0.5 mL minimum) collected in serum separator tube (SST / Tiger Top)
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Room Temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Lab Values
Magnesium
- Low: <1.6 mg/dL
- Normal: 1.6–2.6 mg/dL
- High: >2.6 mg/dL
- Alert: ≤1.0 or ≥6.1 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
Magnesium
- Hypomagnesemia may result from insufficient intake, alcoholism, impaired gastrointestinal absorption, increased gastrointestinal, or urinary loss. Hypermagnesemia is rarely due to dietary sources but is usually the result of an excretion problem or excessive supplementation. Increased levels may be seen in kidney failure, hyperparathyroidism, hypothyroidism , dehydration, and with the use of magnesium-containing antacids or laxatives.
- Hypermagnesemia is rarely due to dietary sources but is usually the result of an excretion problem or excessive supplementation. Increased levels may be seen in kidney failure, hyperparathyroidism, hypothyroidism , dehydration, and with the use of magnesium-containing antacids or laxatives.
Treatment Options
Magnesium
Treatment of mild asymptomatic hypomagnesemia includes oral administration of magnesium salts. Parenteral magnesium sulfate is warranted for moderate to severe or symptomatic hypomagnesemia. Treatment of hypermagnesemia consists of elimination of exogenous magnesium and correction.
