Hypercalcemia Panel

The hypercalcemia panel measures the levels of albumin, calcium (corrected and serum), parathyroid hormone (PTH), inorganic phosphorus, and vitamin D in the blood. These tests can help determine if you have hypercalcemia and, if so, identify its cause.

If you have symptoms of hypercalcemia, such as fatigue, kidney stones, bone pain, or depression, your doctor may order this panel. It helps to identify the underlying cause of the high calcium levels and guides treatment.

You might be asked to fast for at least 8-10 hours before the test. This is to ensure that food does not affect the results. However, always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.

Each component of the panel provides specific information about your body's calcium regulation. For instance, high levels of PTH can indicate hyperparathyroidism, while low vitamin D levels can cause high calcium levels in some cases. Your healthcare provider will explain the results in detail.

Albumin is a protein in the blood that can bind to calcium. When measuring calcium levels, it's important to also measure albumin levels. If albumin levels are low, the total calcium level might appear low even if the level of free, active calcium is normal. If albumin is high, the total calcium might appear high, even though the level of active calcium is normal.

Calcium and phosphorus in your body are directly related: if the level of one goes up, the other goes down. High levels of calcium often lead to low levels of phosphorus.

The frequency of the test depends on the severity of your hypercalcemia and the underlying cause. Your healthcare provider will advise you on the appropriate frequency based on your individual health condition.

Treatment options for hypercalcemia depend on the cause. They might include changes in diet, medications to decrease calcium level, treatment of underlying diseases, or in severe cases, dialysis or surgery.

Several factors can affect the results, including kidney function, vitamin D levels, certain medications, and the level of proteins like albumin in your blood.

If your calcium levels remain high after treatment, your healthcare provider will continue to monitor your levels and may adjust your treatment. It's important to continue following their advice and attending regular check-ups.

In some cases, hypercalcemia can be prevented or managed by a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, it often occurs as a result of other health conditions, so regular check-ups and early detection are important.

You should consult with an endocrinologist or a nephrologist. These specialists can guide you on the appropriate treatment options based on your specific condition.

Yes, certain medications can affect calcium levels. Always tell your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking.

There are minimal risks associated with blood tests. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the site where the blood is drawn.

Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active can help manage your calcium levels. It's also important to take any prescribed medication and attend regular check-ups.

In summary, understanding your hypercalcemia panel results can provide crucial insights into your overall health. Remember, these tests not only detect hypercalcemia but also help determine its cause and guide treatment. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.