The Laboratory and Clinical Perspectives of Magnesium Imbalance.

Magnesium (Mg) is a predominantly intracellular cation that plays significant roles in various enzymatic, membrane, and structural body functions. As a calcium (Ca) antagonist, it is imperative for numerous neuromuscular activities. The imbalance of body Mg  concentration leads to clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to severe life-threatening complications. Therefore, the contribution of Mg measurement regarding various laboratory and clinical aspects cannot be ignored. Mg is often described as the forgotten analyte. However, its close relationship with body potassium (K), Ca and phosphate homeostasis proves that Mg 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 measurement. This review highlights Mg measurement's laboratory and clinical issues and some analyte disturbances associated with its imbalance. Understanding this basis could aid clinicians and laboratory professionals in Mgresult interpretation and patient management.