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Magnesium (Mg), Intracellular

Intracellular magnesium measurement is used to estimate the actual levels of the metal within the cells (intracellular) and is performed by measuring the concentration of magnesium within the red blood cells (RBC).

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Measurement of magnesium (Mg) levels is used as an indicator of the body's metabolic activity (such as carbohydrate metabolism, protein synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, muscle tissue contraction) and renal function because 95% of magnesium is filtered through the glomerulus is reabsorbed into the renal tubules. Most of the body's magnesium, which is an electrolyte, is concentrated in the bones, cartilage, and cells themselves. In addition, magnesium is essential for the blood's coagulation mechanism. Magnesium regulates neuromuscular irritability, acts as a cofactor that modifies the activity of many enzymes, and has a significant effect on calcium metabolism. Magnesium together with potassium are the most important intracellular cations.

Symptoms of hypermagnesaemia include lethargy, drowsiness, flushing, nausea, vomiting, speech disturbances, hypotension, weakness or absence of tendon reflexes, changes in the electrocardiogram (such as PR and QT prolongation, QRS enlargement, bradycardia), and respiratory depression.

Foods rich in magnesium are seafood, meat, green vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Excessive phosphate intake prevents the absorption of both magnesium and calcium.

Serum magnesium concentration provides only an approximate estimate of magnesium adequacy or deficiency. Hypomagnesaemia quite reliably indicates magnesium deficiency, but the absence of hypomagnesaemia cannot rule out significant magnesium deficiency. Serum magnesium concentration is not associated with any magnesium ion reservoir other than the interstitial fluid.

Intracellular magnesium measurement can detect cell deficiency earlier and more accurately than standard serum magnesium testing. Intracellular magnesium measurement is particularly enlightening in patients who show symptoms of magnesium deficiency but have normal serum magnesium levels. Intracellular magnesium measurement can also be used for a more complete analysis of magnesium levels in the body and especially in patients receiving magnesium-containing supplements.

Measurement of Intracellular Trace Elements

Measuring intracellular metals and trace elements by measuring them within red blood cells (RBCs) is an excellent method for assessing the deficiency or excess of elements with important functions within cells or within cell membranes. The measurement of intracellular metals and trace elements is used to assess the state of key elements with important intracellular functions such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper, selenium, and zinc.

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