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Serum magnesium - test

Definition

A serum magnesium test is done to see how much magnesium there is in the blood.

Alternative Names

How the Test is Performed

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm. This applies pressure to the area and causes the vein to swell with blood.

Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects in an air-tight vial or syringe attached to the needle. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, the site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic) and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.

How to Prepare for the Test

There is no special preparation for this test.

How the Test Will Feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is done when your doctor suspects you may have abnormal levels of magnesium in your blood.

About half of the body's magnesium is found in bone. The other half is found inside cells of body tissues and organs.

Magnesium is necessary for nearly all biochemical processes in the body. It helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps the bones strong, controls the heart beat, and helps regulate blood pressure. Magnesium also controls blood sugar levels and helps support the body's defense (immune) system.

Normal Results

1.8 to 3.0 mg/dL. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories.

What Abnormal Results Mean

High magnesium levels may be seen in persons who have:

• Addison's disease
• Chronic renal failure
• Dehydration
• Diabetic acidosis
• Oliguria

• Alcoholism
• Chronic diarrhea
• Delirium tremens
• Hemodialysis
• Hepatic (liver) cirrhosis
• Hyperaldosteronism
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Pancreatitis
• Too much insulin
• Toxemia of pregnancy
• Ulcerative colitis

Risks

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling light-headed
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
• Multiple punctures to locate veins

Considerations

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another, and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.