Which condition is associated with low serum magnesium?

Low serum magnesium is often associated with pancreatitis due to several mechanisms related to the condition. In pancreatitis, there can be increased loss of magnesium through the gastrointestinal tract due to malabsorption and also through renal losses as the kidneys may excrete more magnesium in response to the inflammatory processes occurring in the pancreas. The inflammation and stress associated with pancreatitis can lead to changes in metabolic processes that impact magnesium levels, resulting in a deficiency.

Other conditions listed may have their own implications on serum electrolytes; however, they do not typically result in low serum magnesium in the same manner or with the same frequency as seen in pancreatitis. For example, Addison's disease is more commonly associated with low sodium and high potassium levels due to adrenal insufficiency rather than magnesium levels. Hemolytic anemia primarily affects red blood cell survival and can cause secondary effects on renal function, but its direct connection to magnesium levels is less pronounced. Hyperparathyroidism tends to be associated with elevated calcium levels and may not directly lead to low magnesium levels, though some patients may experience mild deficiencies due to increased urinary losses or dietary factors.