Potassium
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mmol/L
Potassium (K+) is the primary intracellular cation, essential for maintaining the resting membrane potential of cells, particularly in the heart and nervous system. In Serum Electrolytes, monitoring potassium is critical because even minor deviations (hypokalemia or hyperkalemia) can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and muscle paralysis.
Check Your Result
Check Your Result
Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
Potassium levels are frequently subject to 'pseudohyperkalemia' caused by hemolysis during blood collection (e.g., tight tourniquet, fist-clenching, or delayed transport). A second opinion or retest is often required if a high result does not match the clinical presentation.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Potassium:
Official Sources
- Hypokalemia: a clinical update - PMCpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Potassium - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelfncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: Potassium Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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