IONIZED CALCIUM Meaning and
Definition
-
Ionized calcium refers to the concentration of calcium ions (Ca2+) present in the blood plasma. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body, including muscle contraction, nerve transmission, blood clotting, and the functioning of enzymes and hormones. Typically, the total concentration of calcium in the blood is measured, which includes both ionized calcium and calcium bound to proteins (albumin) or various anions. However, the ionized calcium level is considered to be a more accurate indicator of the biologically active form of calcium since it is the physiologically active fraction that participates in metabolic activities.
Measuring ionized calcium is particularly important as it can provide valuable insights into the calcium balance in the body. Alterations in ionized calcium levels may signify underlying health conditions or imbalances in calcium metabolism. An abnormally low ionized calcium level (hypocalcemia) may result from conditions such as hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or certain medications. On the other hand, elevated ionized calcium (hypercalcemia) can arise due to hyperparathyroidism, malignancies, excessive calcium supplementation, or certain disorders affecting the bones or kidneys.
Monitoring ionized calcium levels through blood tests is crucial in diagnosing and managing these conditions effectively, as it helps healthcare professionals evaluate and adjust treatments to restore the balance of calcium in the body.
Common Misspellings for IONIZED CALCIUM
- uonized calcium
- jonized calcium
- konized calcium
- oonized calcium
- 9onized calcium
- 8onized calcium
- iinized calcium
- iknized calcium
- ilnized calcium
- ipnized calcium
- i0nized calcium
- i9nized calcium
- iobized calcium
- iomized calcium
- iojized calcium
- iohized calcium
- ionuzed calcium
- ionjzed calcium
- ionkzed calcium
- ionozed calcium
Etymology of IONIZED CALCIUM
The etymology of the word "ionized calcium" can be broken down as follows:
1. Ionized: The term "ionized" is derived from the word "ion" which refers to an atom or a group of atoms that has an electrical charge due to the loss or gain of electrons. The word "ion" traces back to the Greek word "iōn" meaning "walking" or "going", which is derived from "iēmi" meaning "go".
2. Calcium: The term "calcium" comes from the Latin word "calcis" which means "lime" or "stone". This is related to the Greek word "khalkos" meaning "copper". The name "calcium" was given to the element due to its abundant presence in limestone and other minerals.
