Kidney system

Chloride

Cl

An electrolyte that helps maintain acid-base balance.

What is it

Chloride — in plain English.

Chloride is an extracellular anion that helps maintain electrical neutrality and acid-base balance. It often parallels sodium changes.

Why it's measured

What Cl can reveal.

Chloride has been used in evaluating acid-base disorders in research and clinical practice.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

98 – 107 mEq/L

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Cl — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with certain acid-base disorders in research literature.

Lower

Has been associated with GI losses and certain acid-base disorders in research literature.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Cl is typically run.

Part of standard electrolyte panels.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Cl.

Measured in

Cl is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
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This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.