Magnesium

CPT Code: 83735
Order Code: 622
ABN Requirement:  No
Synonyms: Mg; Mag
Specimen: Serum
Volume: 1.0 mL
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Container: Gel-barrier tube (SST, Tiger Top)

Collection:

  1. Collect and label sample according to standard protocols.
  2. Gently invert tube 5 times immediately after draw. DO NOT SHAKE.
  3. Allow blood to clot 30 minutes.
  4. Centrifuge for 10 minutes.

Transport: Store serum at 2°C to 8°C after collection and ship the same day per packaging instructions included with the provided shipping box.

Stability:

Ambient (15-25°C): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 28 days

Causes for Rejection: Specimens other than serum; improper labeling; samples not stored properly; samples older than stability limits; gross hemolysis

Methodology: Spectrophotometry

Turn Around Time: 1 to 3 days

Reference Range:

Age mg/dL
All Ages 1.5-2.5

 

Priority Values:

Age Priority 1 Value (mg/dL) Priority 1 Value (mg/dL)
All Ages ≤1.0
≥6.1

 

Clinical Significance: Magnesium measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of hypomagnesemia (abnormally low plasma levels of magnesium) and hypermagnesemia (abnormally high plasma levels of magnesium). Magnesium is decreased in chronic nephritis, acute pancreatitis, and alcoholic cirrhosis. It is increased in acute or chronic renal failure and Addison’s Disease.

Limitations: In very rare cases gammopathy may cause unreliable results.

The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payer being billed.