What condition is characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood?

Hypocalcemia is the condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood. Calcium is an essential mineral involved in many bodily functions, including bone health, muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve signaling. When the calcium levels drop below the normal range, it can lead to various symptoms, including muscle spasms, tingling sensations, and, in severe cases, cardiac issues.

In diagnosing hypocalcemia, it's important to measure serum calcium levels, while other factors such as vitamin D levels and phosphate levels may also be considered since they can influence calcium metabolism. Recognizing hypocalcemia is crucial because it can result from multiple underlying causes, including vitamin D deficiency, parathyroid gland dysfunction, or chronic kidney disease, among others.

By contrast, conditions like hypercalcemia refer to elevated calcium levels, while hyperparathyroidism involves the overproduction of parathyroid hormone leading to higher calcium levels. Hypoparathyroidism, on the other hand, results from underactivity of the parathyroid glands and can also lead to low calcium levels, but it is distinct from hypocalcemia itself as a diagnosis.