Chloride, Serum

Chloride, Serum is a common blood test that measures the level of chloride (Cl⁻) in your blood. It’s part of the electrolyte panel or basic metabolic panel (BMP).

🔬 What chloride does

Chloride is an electrolyte that helps:

• Maintain fluid balance
• Keep proper acid–base (pH) balance
• Support nerve and muscle function

📊 Normal range

• Typically: 98–106 mEq/L (may vary slightly by lab)

⬆️ High chloride (Hyperchloremia)

Possible causes:

• Dehydration
• High salt intake
• Kidney problems
• Metabolic acidosis (too much acid in body)
• Certain medications

⬇️ Low chloride (Hypochloremia)

Possible causes:

• Vomiting or prolonged diarrhea
• Fluid loss (e.g., sweating, burns)
• Heart failure
• Addison’s disease
• Metabolic alkalosis (too much base in body)

🧪 Why it’s ordered

Doctors check serum chloride to:

• Evaluate electrolyte imbalance
• Monitor kidney function
• Investigate acid–base disorders