Normal Reference Ranges
Adult
1.7 - 2.2 mg/dL
Pediatric
1.5 - 2.3 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
Critical intracellular cation. Severe hypomagnesemia can cause refractory hypokalemia and fatal arrhythmias (Torsades de Pointes).
Causes of High
- Renal failure
- Excessive antacid/laxative use
- Lithium therapy
Causes of Low
- Alcoholism
- Diuretics
- Poor nutrition
- Diarrhea
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)