Clinical chemistry uses chemical processes to measure levels of chemical components in the blood.
The most common specimens used in clinical chemistry are blood and urine. Many different tests exist to test for almost any type of chemical component in blood or urine. Electrolytes may include sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Measuring electrolytes can specifically indicate certain metabolic and kidney disorders. Enzymes are released into the blood by organs that are damaged or diseased.