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Blood test
Blood test
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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.

Review Date: 9/15/2003
Reviewed By: Irfan A. Agha, M.D., Department of Medicine, Renal Division, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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