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Laboratory Tests

This section provides detailed information on a wide range of laboratory tests relevant to women's medicine

A rapid reference

Serum Magnesium

Magnesium is used in the body for:
  • Energy metabolism
  • Clotting
  • Neuromuscular irritability
  • Enzymatic reactions

Magnesium sulfate is used to treat a variety of clinical conditions.

Increased levels of magnesium may be found in:

  • Impaired renal function
  • Some diuretics
  • Dehydration
  • Diabetic ketoacidosis
  • Excessive intake (some antacids)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Addison's disease
  • Hemolysis

Reduced levels of magnesium may be found in:

  • Liver disease
  • Some diuretics
  • Aldosteronism
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Diarrhea
  • Malnutrition
  • Chronic gastric suctioning

Normal Values*

Men 1.7-2.8 mg/dl 0.70-1.15 mmol/L
Women 2-3 mg/dl 0.82-1.24 mmol/L
Pregnancy 1.6-2.1 mg/dl 0.66-0.86 mmol/L
Therapeutic Range
in Pre-eclampsia 		4-7 mEq/L 1.65-2.88 mmol/L

*These are general values taken from a variety of sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one type of testing protocol to another.