At what serum calcium level is calcium considered a medical emergency?

A serum calcium level of 14 mg/dL is considered a medical emergency due to the potential for life-threatening complications associated with severe hypercalcemia. At this elevated level, calcium can disrupt normal physiological functions, leading to critical issues such as cardiac arrhythmias, altered mental status, and acute kidney injury.

In addition, calcium levels above 14 mg/dL can lead to increased neuromuscular excitability and interfere with various biochemical processes in the body, which can precipitate more severe symptoms, including significant dehydration and calcification of soft tissues.

The range that indicates concern for hypercalcemic crisis generally begins at 12 mg/dL, but the symptoms and risks become increasingly severe at levels above 14 mg/dL, necessitating immediate medical intervention. Therefore, recognizing 14 mg/dL as a threshold for emergency management is crucial in clinical practice, especially in acute care settings.