Chloride, Blood

Chloride is the major extracellular anion and counterbalances the major cation, sodium, maintaining electrical neutrality of the body fluids. Two thirds of the total anion concentration in extracellular fluids is chloride and it is significantly involved in maintaining proper hydration and osmotic pressure.

Chloride is a negatively charged electrolyte that is essential in the maintenance of the acid-base balance environment in the body. Chloride is an abundant molecule, making up two thirds of the fluid found in between cells called the interstitial fluid. It is also found in all tissues and cells in the body. This helps to maintain the pH environment around cells. It is one of the test that is required in an electrolyte screen to help and determine the cause of electrolyte imbalances.

This test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Prolonged vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Weakness, fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Suspected alkalosis or acidosis

Also Known As: Cl