What is the normal serum calcium range?

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Multiple Choice

What is the normal serum calcium range?

Explanation:
Normal serum calcium is tightly regulated and typically falls in about 8.5–10.5 mg/dL. Calcium in the blood has two forms: a bound portion (mostly to albumin) and a free, ionized portion that is biologically active. Total calcium reflects both, but albumin levels can skew the total measurement, so clinicians often adjust or measure ionized calcium when albumin is abnormal. Regulation is achieved mainly through parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and calcitonin to maintain this range. Values within 8.5–10.5 mg/dL are considered normal; deviations point to hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia and warrant evaluation.

Normal serum calcium is tightly regulated and typically falls in about 8.5–10.5 mg/dL. Calcium in the blood has two forms: a bound portion (mostly to albumin) and a free, ionized portion that is biologically active. Total calcium reflects both, but albumin levels can skew the total measurement, so clinicians often adjust or measure ionized calcium when albumin is abnormal. Regulation is achieved mainly through parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, and calcitonin to maintain this range. Values within 8.5–10.5 mg/dL are considered normal; deviations point to hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia and warrant evaluation.

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