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Electrolyte Panel & Skin Disorders

- Summary
- About electrolytes
- About electrolyte panels
- Factors that may affect panel results
- Before, during and after the test
- Understanding electrolyte panel results
- Frequency of electrolyte testing
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Mary Ellen Luchetti, M.D., AAD

Summary

An electrolyte panel is a group of blood tests that measures electrolyte levels to assess the general functioning of a patient’s organ systems. Electrolytes are minerals found naturally in the body that help regulate a number of body functions. The results of an electrolyte panel can help a physician make a diagnosis of a disease or help monitor the progress of treatment.

Electrolyte imbalance can cause serious problems such as dehydration, nausea, vomiting and fever. Skin-related conditions that may cause electrolyte imbalance include severe burns, kidney failure and certain types of psoriasis. An electrolyte panel can help a physician detect these conditions.

Prior to testing, patients need to inform their physician of all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies and vitamin supplements they may be taking because a wide variety of substances can affect the results of these tests. They also need to follow their physician’s orders carefully regarding the food, drink or medications that can be taken (or should be avoided) before the test.

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Review Date: 05-23-2007
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