Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in muscle contraction, nerve signaling, enzyme activity, and bone health.

It plays a critical role in maintaining electrolyte balance and cellular metabolism.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing electrolyte disturbances.

Monitoring patients with kidney disease, malnutrition, or chronic alcoholism.

Evaluating causes of muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias, or seizures.

Assessing patients on diuretics or other medications that affect magnesium levels.

The test is performed using a blood sample.

Analyte: Serum magnesium concentration.

Normal Range: ~1.7 – 2.2 mg/dL (varies slightly by lab).

Abnormal Findings:

High magnesium (hypermagnesemia): May indicate kidney failure, excessive magnesium intake, or adrenal insufficiency.

Low magnesium (hypomagnesemia): May indicate malnutrition, chronic alcoholism, prolonged diarrhea, diuretic use, or endocrine disorders.

Clinical Use:

Provides insight into electrolyte and metabolic status.

Helps differentiate causes of neuromuscular and cardiac symptoms.

Guides treatment in renal, metabolic, and critical care conditions.