Elektrolytenpanel

Elektrolytenpanel is a laboratory test used to measure the concentrations of key electrolytes in blood serum or plasma. The core components typically include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl−) and bicarbonate (HCO3−). Many panels also report calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+) and phosphate (PO4^3−). The panel helps assess hydration status, kidney function, acid–base balance, and electrolyte disturbances that can arise from illness, dehydration, or medical treatments.

Procedure and scope: a blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed with automated chemistry analyzers that use ion-selective electrodes. Turnaround time is usually within a few hours in hospital laboratories; point‑of‑care devices may yield faster results. The elektrolytenpanel can be ordered alone or as part of broader metabolic testing.

Clinical use and interpretation: reference ranges vary by laboratory, but commonly reported values include sodium roughly 135–145 mEq/L, potassium 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, chloride 96–106 mEq/L, and bicarbonate 22–28 mEq/L. Abnormal results may indicate dehydration or overhydration, kidney disease, endocrine disorders, or medication effects. Typical disturbance patterns include hyponatremia or hypernatremia, hypokalemia or hyperkalemia, and metabolic acidosis or metabolic alkalosis, which are interpreted in the clinical context alongside symptoms and other tests.

Relation to other panels and limitations: the elektrolytenpanel is often part of larger metabolic panels, such as the basic metabolic panel (BMP) or comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP). Results can be affected by sample handling, hemolysis, lipemia, or recent transfusions, and must be interpreted by a clinician within the broader clinical picture.