Lab test · Electrolytes
Electrolyte panel
An electrolyte panel measures sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate. What it shows about fluid balance, kidneys and acid–base status.
Written by LON6EVITY Editorial Team · Last updated
What it measures
MedlinePlus explains that an electrolyte panel measures sodium, chloride, potassium and bicarbonate (carbon dioxide) — minerals that help control fluid balance, acid–base balance and nerve and muscle function.
When it is used
It is often part of a basic or comprehensive metabolic panel and is used in routine check-ups, to monitor blood pressure medicines and kidney conditions, and when someone has vomiting, diarrhoea or dehydration.
Interpreting results
Abnormal values have many causes, from fluid loss to hormone and kidney problems. They are read together with kidney function results and medicines.
Factors that can affect the result
- Hydration
- Diuretics and blood pressure medicines
- Kidney function
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
Questions people commonly ask
- Is this the same as a metabolic panel?
- The electrolytes are one part of a metabolic panel, which also includes glucose and kidney markers.
Related biomarkers
Related tests
Keep your health results in one place
What does this mean for your own health data? Log your results, follow trends over time and bring an organised summary to your next doctor's appointment.
Sources
- Electrolyte Panel. MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.