What this marker measures
Chloride moves in parallel with sodium and inversely with bicarbonate in the context of acid-base balance. It is one of the four standard electrolytes measured together (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride).
High or low: what it can mean
High Chloride
High chloride (hyperchloremia) can be associated with dehydration, excess saline infusion, or certain kidney conditions. It is rarely an isolated finding and is usually interpreted alongside sodium and bicarbonate.
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Low Chloride
Low chloride (hypochloremia) can be caused by prolonged vomiting, sweating, diuretic use, or metabolic alkalosis. It is also usually interpreted alongside other electrolytes.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Chloride?
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Chloride is a negatively charged electrolyte that works alongside sodium to maintain fluid balance, blood pressure, and acid-base balance.
What does Chloride measure?
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Chloride moves in parallel with sodium and inversely with bicarbonate in the context of acid-base balance. It is one of the four standard electrolytes measured together (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride).
What does high Chloride mean?
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High chloride (hyperchloremia) can be associated with dehydration, excess saline infusion, or certain kidney conditions. It is rarely an isolated finding and is usually interpreted alongside sodium and bicarbonate.
What does low Chloride mean?
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Low chloride (hypochloremia) can be caused by prolonged vomiting, sweating, diuretic use, or metabolic alkalosis. It is also usually interpreted alongside other electrolytes.
Related biomarkers
Editorial note
LabTestly explains lab markers using plain-English educational content. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and should be interpreted with a clinician.
Educational content · Editorially reviewed for clarity · Last updated
Common sources used for lab-test education
Not medical advice
This page is for general understanding only and does not replace medical advice from your clinician. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, age, sex, pregnancy status, medications, and clinical context.