Acid base, Electrolytes

Question 1

What are the functions of magnesium?

Answer 1

Co-factor of Na/K-ATPase and calcium ATPase. Co-factor for function of DNA and RNA polymerase (required for production such as glutathione, glutamine, thiramine, cAMP). Co-facotr in >300 enzyme reactions. Depolarisation of myocardial cells and neurons. Contractility of vascular endothelium. Activation of T cells. Programmed cell death role.

Question 2

What are causes of hypermagnesaemia?

Answer 2

Decreased renal excretion. Iatrogenic including laxatives/enemas. Endocrine. Tumour lysis. Rhabdomyolysis.