Calcium Blood Test
Also known as: Calcium Test
Calcium Test Details in Brief
| Also Known As | Calcium, Serum |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Helps in evaluating calcium homeostasis, supports the diagnosis of hypercalcaemia and hypocalcaemia, and is useful in assessing parathyroid gland function. |
| Preparation | Clinical History Required |
| Fasting | Fasting not required |
| Reporting Time | After 4 Hours |
| Cost | 270 |
What Is a Calcium Test?
A calcium test, most commonly known as a serum calcium test, is a simple medical test that measures the total amount of calcium in your blood. The test requires a blood sample, which is typically drawn from a vein in your arm. This test helps doctors detect and monitor a wide range of medical conditions related to the bones, heart, nerves, kidneys, and parathyroid glands.
What Does the Calcium Test Measure?
The primary purpose of a serum calcium test is to check if the calcium level in your blood is within the normal range, as calcium is one of the most important minerals in the body:
- Measures both bound calcium (attached to proteins) and free calcium (active form) in your blood.
- Evaluates calcium homeostasis and balance in your body.
- Supports the diagnosis of hypercalcaemia (high calcium) and hypocalcaemia (low calcium).
- Assesses parathyroid gland function and hormone regulation.
- Aids in detecting vitamin D disorders that affect calcium absorption.
- Helps monitor chronic kidney disease and its impact on calcium levels.
- Supports bone metabolism assessments and bone health evaluation.
Calcium Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done
What Symptoms May Call for a Calcium Test?
A doctor may recommend a calcium blood test if you show symptoms of either high or low calcium levels.
- Symptoms of high calcium (Hypercalcaemia)
- Increased thirst and frequent urination
- Fatigue, weakness, and exhaustion
- Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
- Constipation and abdominal pain
- Bone pain and muscle weakness
- Confusion and lethargy
- Symptoms of low calcium (Hypocalcaemia)
- Muscle cramps, spasms, or twitching (especially in the back and legs)
- Tingling or numbness in the lips, tongue, fingers, and feet
- Dry skin and brittle nails
- Irregular heartbeat
- Confusion or memory loss
Who Should Get a Calcium Test?
A calcium blood test is recommended for various groups of people who may be at risk:
- Patients with symptoms experiencing signs of high or low calcium levels.
- High-risk individuals with kidney disease, kidney stones, or parathyroid gland disorders.
- People with thyroid disease or certain types of cancer (lung, breast, kidney).
- Patients with bone diseases like osteoporosis or malabsorption disorders.
- Those on specific medications such as diuretics, lithium, or long-term antacids.
- Routine health check-ups as part of comprehensive metabolic panels for early detection.
Why Is a Calcium Test Done?
A calcium test is done to diagnose, screen for, and monitor conditions affecting the bones, kidneys, parathyroid glands, and nervous system. It helps doctors guide treatment and manage your health effectively.
Importance of a Calcium Test
The calcium test is clinically important because calcium is vital for many of your body's essential functions. It includes building strong bones and teeth, enabling nerve impulse transmission, facilitating muscle contraction, helping blood to clot, and maintaining a normal heart rhythm.
By providing a clear picture of blood calcium levels, the test allows doctors to make informed decisions about further testing, prescribe appropriate treatments, and monitor the effectiveness of ongoing therapy.
Calcium Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India
How to Book a Calcium Test?
- Simple Online Booking
Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the calcium test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab. - Safe Home Sample Collection
Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols. - Sample Tracking Updates
Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website. - Accurate Laboratory Testing
Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results. - Quick & Easy Reports
Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.
Is Home Sample Collection for Calcium Test Available Near You?
Yes, Metropolis Healthcare's home sample collection for calcium tests brings convenience directly to your doorstep. With strict safety protocols and proper sample handling by our trained phlebotomists, you can trust that your calcium test will be processed accurately at our NABL- and CAP-accredited laboratories, providing reliable results for your health assessment.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Calcium Test Report?
Reports are usually available within 4 hours once the sample reaches the lab.
Where Can I See or Get Calcium Test Results?
Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.
Interpreting Calcium Test Results
What Your Calcium Test Results May Indicate
The table below shows the normal reference range and what different calcium levels might indicate:
|
Parameter |
Normal Range |
High Values May Indicate |
Low Values May Indicate |
|
Calcium, Serum |
8.6-10.0 mg/dL |
Hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, excessive vitamin D intake, kidney disease, or prolonged bed rest |
Hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, malabsorption disorders, or certain medications |
Conditions that May Affect Calcium Test Accuracy
Several factors can influence your calcium test results and should be discussed with your doctor.
- Certain medications, particularly calcium supplements, vitamin D, lithium, and diuretics, can affect calcium levels.
- Dehydration can lead to falsely elevated total calcium readings due to blood concentration.
- Kidney disease may alter calcium levels due to impaired mineral regulation.
- Recent illness, stress, or significant dietary changes may impact calcium metabolism.
- Albumin levels in your blood can affect total calcium measurements, as calcium binds to this protein.
- Long-term use of calcium-containing antacids may influence test results.
How Is a Calcium Test Done?
The calcium test procedure is simple, following these steps:
- A healthcare professional will clean an area on your arm, usually inside the elbow.
- A small needle is inserted into a vein to collect a blood sample.
- About 2 mL of blood is drawn into a gel vacutainer tube.
- The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied to the puncture site.
- The entire blood collection process takes only a few minutes.
How Should You Prepare for a Calcium Test?
Preparing for your calcium test is simple:
- No special fasting required; you can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Stay adequately hydrated by drinking water as usual before the test.
- Provide your clinical history as required for accurate interpretation of results.
Diseases that a Calcium Test Can Help Detect
A calcium test can help identify various health conditions:
- Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands)
- Hypoparathyroidism (underactive parathyroid glands)
- Kidney disease and chronic kidney failure
- Certain types of cancer, particularly those affecting bones
- Vitamin D deficiency or excess
- Malabsorption disorders like coeliac disease
- Bone diseases, including osteoporosis
- Thyroid disorders affecting calcium metabolism
Calcium Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare
Here are related tests and packages available for comprehensive calcium assessment:
|
Test/Package Name |
Purpose/Highlights |
|
Basic serum calcium measurement for general health assessment. |
|
|
Calcium/Creatinine Ratio (24 hrs) |
Assesses calcium excretion relative to creatinine to detect hypercalciuria, nephrolithiasis, and bone metabolism disorders. |
|
Comprehensive calcium metabolism assessment, including related parameters. |
|
|
Measures calcium excretion in urine to help diagnose kidney stones, metabolic bone disorders, and calcium metabolism issues. |
Calcium Test Prices in Different Cities
The cost of a calcium test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities:
|
City |
Price |
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
|
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
|
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
|
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
|
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
|
|
₹130 - ₹280 |
Calcium Test Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Calcium Test with a clear pricing structure.
The Calcium Test Price in Mumbai is ₹ 270 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Several factors regulate calcium levels, including Parathyroid Hormone (PTH), vitamin D, and calcitonin. Diet, kidney function, certain medications, like diuretics, and albumin protein levels in your blood can all influence calcium measurements.
Yes, persistently high calcium levels can impair kidney function, leading to dehydration and reduced blood flow to the kidneys. This kidney stress can cause creatinine levels to rise, indicating potential kidney damage.
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) for ionised calcium is increasingly used in hospitals. These portable devices allow rapid bedside testing, particularly useful in critical care settings like ICUs and operating rooms for immediate results.
A calcium test can be taken at any time of day. However, your doctor may prefer a morning sample for consistency, especially if it's part of a panel requiring fasting tests.
Fasting is not usually required for a standalone calcium test. However, it may be part of larger blood panels requiring 8-12 hours of fasting. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your test.
Yes, severe dehydration can cause haemoconcentration, leading to falsely high total calcium readings. It's important to maintain adequate hydration before your test for accurate results.
Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you're taking. Some, like calcium supplements, vitamin D, lithium, and certain diuretics, can interfere with results. Your doctor will advise if temporary discontinuation is needed.
A trained phlebotomist cleans your arm area, usually inside the elbow, then inserts a small needle into a vein to collect blood into a vial. The entire procedure is quick and takes only a few minutes.
Risks are minimal with blood tests. You might feel a slight prick when the needle enters and may experience minor bruising, slight bleeding, or soreness at the site. Fainting or infection is very rare.
The normal range for total serum calcium in adults is typically 8.6-10.0 mg/dL.
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We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.

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