Laboratory Medicine Program

Potassium, fluid

Clinical Decription:
The measurement of potassium is used mainly to monitor electrolyte balance in the diagnosis and treatment of primary aldosteronism, metabolic alkalosis, diarrhea, severe vomiting, diuretic administration, diabetic ketoacidosis, and other diseases. Potassium is the principle cation of intracellular fluid. In red blood cells the concentration is approximately 105 mmol/L or 23 times the concentration in plasma. The Na/ K-ATPase pump that is located in the cellular membrane maintains high intracellular concentrations. It continuously transports potassium into the cell. Potassium is excreted by the kidneys at a rate proportional to dietary intake. In contrast to sodium, the kidney response to conserve potassium in instances of low total body potassium. Disturbances of potassium homeostasis can have serious consequences. For example, decreased extracellular levels can cause muscle irritability, increased heart rate and possibly cardiac arrest. Increased levels can cause muscle weakness, slow heart rate and possible cardiac arrest. Examples of abnormal potassium levels are: 1. hypokalemia can be the result of insulin therapy o f diabetic hyperglycemia. Cellular uptake of glucose accompanied by the uptake of potassium and water hyperkalemia can be caused by diabetic ketoacidosis in which potassium moves from intracellular space into plasma, as hydrogen ions move into cells.
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Method: Automated method; Advia

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
N/A

Specimen Type: Body Fluid
Volume: 1 mL (minimum: 0.5 mL)

Shipping: room temperature or 4C

Special Instructions: n/a

Testing Schedule(s): on demand.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

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