Calcium Flashcards
What is thee normal range of calcium?
2.20-2.60 mmol/L
Where is the majority of calcium found?
In the bones
What are the 3 main things that cause hypercalcaemia?
- Malignancy
- Dehydration
- Primary or Tertiary hyperparathyroidism
What are the main symptoms of hypercalcaemia?
Bone pain, renal stones, constipation, confusion and a decreased QT interval
If a patient has hypercalcaemia what other tests do you want to carry out?
parathyroid hormone levels, vitamin D levels, phosphate levels, ALP levels
When should you admit a patient with hypercalcaemia?
When their levels are above 3
(You should also ? a malignancy then too)
What is the first line treatment for hypercalcaemia?
Give IV fluids (NOT Hartman’s)
If IV fluids do not bring down the calcium levels, what else can you prescribe the patient?
Bisphosphonates, furosemide, steroids
What medication can you prescribe when no other treatment e.g., IV fluids, bisphosphonates etc. has decreased the calcium levels?
Zolendronic acid
What is classified as a hypocalcaemic result?
<2.20 mmol/L
What are the 3 main causes of hypocalcaemia?
- CKD
- Hypoparathyroidism (from surgery)
- Vitamin D deficiency
What can you test to find the underlying cause of hypocalcaemia?
Phosphate levels
What 3 things should you be testing when checking the calcium levels?
calcium, phosphate and potassium
What is the acronym used to remember the signs and symptoms of hypocalcaemia?
SPASMODIC
If some one has mild hypocalcaemia how will you treat them?
Oral calcium supplements
