Chloride (Cl)

About Test

The Chloride (Cl) test measures the level of chloride, an essential electrolyte, in the blood. Chloride is crucial for maintaining fluid balance, regulating blood pressure, and supporting the function of muscles and nerves. It works closely with other electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, to manage the body's acid-base balance and fluid levels.

This test is often part of an electrolyte panel and is used to assess overall electrolyte balance and kidney function. Abnormal chloride levels, either too high (hyperchloremia) or too low (hypochloremia), can indicate various health conditions, such as dehydration, kidney disease, or metabolic imbalances.

Monitoring chloride levels is important for managing conditions that affect fluid balance and electrolyte levels, helping healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatments and ensuring proper management of health conditions. Regular testing allows for timely adjustments to medication or dietary recommendations, promoting optimal health and well-being.

Sample Requirements

Gold SST Tube

Stability

Serum: 7 days 2-8°C, 24 hours 15-25°C

Turnaround Time

4 hours

Assay Interferences

Recovery within ± 10 %

Hemolysis

Sodium and chloride: 1000 mg/dL (621 μmol/L) hemoglobin (approximate H index 1000)

Potassium: Do not use hemolyzed samples.

Icterus

Bilirubin (conjugated/unconjugated): 60 mg/dL (1026 μmol/L) bilirubin (approximate I index 60)

Lipemia

Intralipid: 2000 mg/dL Intralipid (corresponding to an approximate L index of 2000)

Medications

Acetaminophen (paracetamol): 200 mg/L

Acetylcysteine: 150 mg/L

Acetylsalicylic acid: 1000 mg/L

Ampicillin Na: 1000 mg/L

Ascorbic acid: 300 mg/L

Cefoxitin: 2500 mg/L

Cyclosporin: 5 mg/L

Doxycyclin: 50 mg/L

Heparin: 5000 U

Ibuprofen: 500 mg/L

Intralipid: 10000 mg/L

L Dopa: 20 mg/L

Methyldopa: 20 mg/L

Metronidazol: 200 mg/L

Phenylbutazone: 400 mg/L

Rifampicin: 60 mg/L

Theophylline: 100 mg/L

Reference Range (mmol/L):

95.0 – 108.0

Critical Value:

Below 80 or above 120 mmol/L