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Blood test
Blood test

Serum chloride

Definition:
This test measures the amount of chloride in serum (serum is the fluid portion of the blood).

Alternative Names:
Cl-

How the test is performed:
Blood is drawn from a vein or capillary. The laboratory centrifuges the blood to separate the cells from the serum. The chloride test is done on serum.

How to prepare for the test:

Your doctor may instruct you to withhold drugs that can affect the test, such as:

  • Drugs that may increase serum chloride measurements include acetazolamide, ammonium chloride, androgens, cortisone, estrogen, guanethidine, methyldopa, and NSAIDs.
  • Drugs that may decrease serum chloride measurements include aldosterone, drugs containing bicarbonate, some diuretics, and triamterene.

Never stop taking medication unless instructed by your doctor.



Why the test is performed:
Chloride (Cl-) is the major negative ion in the fluid outside the body's cells. Its main function is to maintain electrical neutrality, mostly as a counter-ion to sodium. Changes in the chloride level often accompany sodium losses and excesses.

Normal Values:

Normal values may vary slightly from laboratory to laboratory. A typical normal range is 96 to 106 mEq/L.

Note: mEq/L = milliequivalents per liter



What abnormal results mean:
Greater-than-normal levels may indicate:
  • Respiratory alkalosis
  • Metabolic acidosis due to GI bicarbonate loss
  • Bromism (excess intake of bromide, usually with sub-standard anticonvulsants)
  • Excess infusion of normal saline
  • Carbinic anhydrase inhibitors
  • Renal tubular acidosis
Lower-than-normal levels may indicate: Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:


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