Minerals and electrolytes: Part 1

Abstract

The availability of rapid, accurate methods for the measurement of concentrations of minerals in body fluids has led to an increased appreciation of the incidence and effects of deviations from the 'normal' range of values. Consequently, the therapeutic use of minerals and electrolytes has increased. This article, divided into two parts, discusses the interpretation of laboratory results and their implications for the diagnosis and treatment of disease in animals, small animals are covered in Part 1 and horses and ruminants in Part 2, which will be published in the next issue.