IONISED CALCIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Ionized calcium, also known as free or unbound calcium, refers to the fraction of calcium present in the blood that is not bound to proteins. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in various physiological processes within the body, including muscle contraction, nerve function, and bone health.
When calcium is consumed in the diet, it is typically absorbed in the intestines and transported in the bloodstream. Majority of calcium in the blood is bound to proteins, primarily albumin, forming complexes that are biologically inactive. However, a small portion of calcium remains in its ionized or free form, and it is this fraction that is biologically active and readily available for use in critical bodily functions.
Measurement of ionized calcium is important in clinical settings as it provides a more accurate representation of the biologically active calcium in the body. Various medical conditions can impact the levels of ionized calcium, including disorders of the parathyroid gland, kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, and certain medications.
Normal ionized calcium levels fall within a specific range, and deviations from this range can have significant health implications. Low ionized calcium levels (hypocalcemia) can lead to muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, and in severe cases, seizures. On the other hand, high ionized calcium levels (hypercalcemia) can cause fatigue, weakness, constipation, impaired kidney function, and disturbances in heart rhythm.
In summary, ionized calcium refers to the biologically active fraction of calcium in the blood that is not bound to proteins. Accurate measurement and maintenance of ionized calcium levels are crucial for overall health and proper physiological functioning.
Common Misspellings for IONISED CALCIUM
- uonised calcium
- jonised calcium
- konised calcium
- oonised calcium
- 9onised calcium
- 8onised calcium
- iinised calcium
- iknised calcium
- ilnised calcium
- ipnised calcium
- i0nised calcium
- i9nised calcium
- iobised calcium
- iomised calcium
- iojised calcium
- iohised calcium
- ionused calcium
- ionjsed calcium
- ionksed calcium
- ionosed calcium
Etymology of IONISED CALCIUM
The word "ionised calcium" can be broken down into two parts: "ionised" and "calcium".
The term "ionised" refers to the state of an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, becoming electrically charged. It comes from the noun "ion", which goes back to the Greek word "ἰόν" (ion) meaning "going".
"Calcium" is a chemical element and a mineral found in many rocks. The word "calcium" has its roots in the Latin term "calx", which means "limestone" or "chalk".
So, when combined, "ionised calcium" refers to the form of calcium that exists as ions, specifically referring to the calcium atoms that have lost or gained electrons, making them electrically charged.
