The Laboratory and Clinical Perspectives of Magnesium Imbalance.

Magnesium (Mg ²⁺ ) is a predominantly intracellular cation that plays significant roles in various enzymatic, membrane, and structural body functions. As a calcium (Ca ²⁺ ) antagonist, it is imperative for numerous neuromuscular activities. The imbalance of body Mg ²⁺  concentration leads to clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to severe life-threatening complications. Therefore, the contribution of Mg ²⁺ measurement regarding various laboratory and clinical aspects cannot be ignored. Mg ²⁺ is often described as the forgotten analyte. However, its close relationship with body potassium (K ⁺ ), Ca ^2+, and phosphate homeostasis proves that Mg ²⁺ imbalance could co-exist as the root cause or the consequence of other electrolyte disorders. Meanwhile, several preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical aspects could influence Mg ²⁺ measurement. This review highlights Mg ²⁺ measurement's laboratory and clinical issues and some analyte disturbances associated with its imbalance. Understanding this basis could aid clinicians and laboratory professionals in Mg ²⁺  result interpretation and patient management.
Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
(Copyright © 2023, Ab Rahim et al.)