From the Guidelines
The patient's calcium level should be between 8.6 to 10.3 mg/dL, which is the normal range for serum total calcium concentration in adults, as indicated by the study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases 1. To determine the patient's calcium level, it is essential to consider the normal values for serum total calcium concentration, which vary among clinical laboratories.
- The normal range for serum total calcium concentration in adults is between 8.6 to 10.3 mg/dL (2.15 to 2.57 mmol/L) 1.
- Calcium in blood exists in three distinct fractions: protein-bound calcium (40%), free (formerly called ionized) calcium (48%), and calcium complexed with various anions such as phosphate, lactate, citrate, and bicarbonate (12%) 1.
- Free calcium can be measured using ion-selective electrodes in most hospitals, and values in adults range between 4.65 and 5.28 mg/dL (1.16 and 1.32 mmol/L) 1. It is crucial to note that the patient's calcium level can be affected by various factors, including age, gender, and kidney function.
- The study published in the New England Journal of Medicine 1 highlights the importance of maintaining normal calcium balance and serum calcium levels, which depend on integrated regulation of calcium absorption and secretion by the intestinal tract, the excretion of calcium by the kidney, and calcium release from and calcium deposition into bone.
- The American Cancer Society guidelines on nutrition and physical activity for cancer prevention 1 suggest that consuming recommended levels of calcium, primarily through food sources, can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. However, excessive calcium intake (over 2000-2500 mg daily) should be avoided as it may increase the risk of kidney stones and cardiovascular issues in some individuals 1.
- The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calcium is 1000-1200 mg per day for adults, and vitamin D is often recommended alongside calcium to enhance calcium absorption 1.
From the Research
Calcium Levels
- The provided studies do not mention a specific patient's calcium level 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies discuss optimal calcium intake, calcium supplementation, and the potential risks associated with excessive calcium intake, but do not provide information on a specific patient's calcium level.
Optimal Calcium Intake
- The optimal calcium intake varies by age and demographic, with recommended daily intakes ranging from 400 mg/day for infants to 1,500 mg/day for adults over 65 years old 2, 3.
- Adequate vitamin D is essential for optimal calcium absorption, and dietary constituents, hormones, drugs, age, and genetic factors influence the amount of calcium required for optimal skeletal health 2, 3.