Etymed
hypermagnesemia
Definition
A pathological condition characterized by elevated levels of magnesium in the bloodstream
Clinical context
A 65-year-old patient with chronic kidney disease presents to the emergency department with confusion, decreased deep tendon reflexes, and bradycardia. Laboratory studies reveal a serum magnesium level of 4.5 mEq/L. The patient's renal function has been progressively declining over the past year. What electrolyte abnormality is most likely responsible for this patient's clinical presentation?
Mnemonic
KIDNEY dysfunction leads to MAGNESIUM buildup - KIDNEY, MAGNESIUM, KIDNEY