Laboratory Medicine Program

Electrolytes
(Lytes)

Clinical Decription:
The role of electrolytes in the body are manifold. There are almost no metabolic processes which are not dependent on or affected by electrolytes. Among other functions of the electrolytes are maintenance of osmotic pressure and hydration of various body fluid compartments, maintenance of the proper body pH, regulation of the proper function of the heart and other muscles, involvement in oxidation-reduction (electron transfer) reactions, and participation as an essential part of cofactor of enzymes. Abnormal levels of may be either the cause or the consequence of a variety of disorders.
<br/><em>Tietz NW. Textbook of Clinical Chemistry 2nd ed. W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia, 1982:849.</em>

Method: Automated method; C16000

Component Tests Used: Sodium, Potassium, Chloride

Reference Ranges Used:
Sodium: 135-145 mmol/L Potassium: 3.2-5.0 mmol/L Chloride: 100-110 mmol.L

Specimen Type: serum or plasma
Collected In: Lithium heparin
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot.

Testing Schedule(s): on demand.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

Download order form

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227

Back to Search