A method for performing a calcium balance study in man and the interpretation of results

Methods for the measurement of calcium in the diet, urine and faeces for the performance of a calcium balance study was described, along with experiments on analytical procedures including recovery values. A means of calculating the inherent "technical error" in such a balance is given, and a method for determining the significance of any change in a patient's balance is described. These are illustrated by worked examples of data from a patient suffering from Paget's disease and one with osteoporosis before and after treatment with calcitonin.