HYPOCALCEMIA AND HYPOMAGNESEMIA

The divalent cations, calcium and magnesium, play a vital role in neur omuscular function and cellular metabolism. Hypocalcemia related to pa rathyroid disorder, renal failure, puerperal tetany, and various toxic ities is well documented in veterinary medicine. The recent availabili ty of ionized calcium measurement is helping to increase the accuracy of detection of this state. Recent evidence suggests that hypomagnesem ia is also a significant presence, particularly in critically ill pati ents, with clinical significance relating mainly to concomitant electr olyte deficiencies, such as hypokalemia.