Magnesium in Erythrocytes

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the body, involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions. It is essential for the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscles, heart, energy production, protein synthesis, and bone health. About 99% of the body's magnesium is found in cells and bones, with only a small portion present in blood serum.

Determining magnesium concentration in erythrocytes allows for a more accurate assessment of the body's intracellular magnesium reserves than serum magnesium testing. Since erythrocytes store magnesium, this test better reflects long-term magnesium status and can help identify hidden magnesium deficiency even when serum magnesium concentration is normal.

Magnesium deficiency may manifest as fatigue, muscle cramps, weakness, increased irritability, sleep disturbances, heart rhythm changes, or elevated blood pressure. Long-term magnesium deficiency is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

Increased magnesium concentration in erythrocytes is less common and usually associated with excessive magnesium supplement intake or impaired magnesium excretion, for example, in kidney disease.

Recommendations

• The test is recommended when magnesium deficiency is suspected, in cases of muscle cramps, fatigue, heart rhythm disturbances, or when assessing the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation.
• Prophylactically, the test can be performed once a year or as recommended by a doctor.
• It is recommended to fast for 8–12 hours before the test.
• It is recommended to avoid magnesium supplements for 2–3 days before the test (unless advised otherwise by a doctor).
• Medications, dietary supplements, alcohol, and intense physical activity before the test may affect the results.