Phosphorus Serum

Category:

Phosphorus  Serum

Description

Also known as: P, PO4, Phosphate

Phosphorus is a mineral.  Combined with oxygen form a variety of phosphates (PO4). Phosphates are vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth. Also play an important role as a buffer, helping to maintain the body’s acid-base balance. Around 70% to 80% of the phosphates are combined with calcium to form bones and teeth, around 10% are found in muscle, and around 1% in nerve tissue. Around 1% of total body phosphorus is found in the blood.

Phosphorus comes from diet. A variety of foods, such as beans, peas and nuts, cereals, eggs, beef, chicken, and fish contain significant amounts of phosphorus. Phosphorus is absoved from the intestines and excreted by the kidneys. This way the body regulates the phosphorus/phosphate levels in the blood.

Its concentration is measured by means of analysis of a blood sample drawn from the vein in the arm. Timed urine phosphorus measurements also may be used to monitor phosphorus elimination by the kidneys.

Purpose of the test

To evaluate the level of phosphorus in the blood in order to monitor some bone and kidney disorders.   It is prescribed as a follow-up to an abnormal calcium level, also if there is a kidney disorder or uncontrolled diabetes, and if the patient is taking calcium or phosphate supplements.

A phosphorus test may help in the diagnosis of problems with hormones, such as parathyroid hormone (PTH), and Vitamin D, which functions as a hormone, that regulate the body’s calcium level and, to a lesser degree, phosphorus levels.

Phosphorus testing often is performed as a follow-up to an abnormal calcium level and/or related symptoms, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, cramping, or bone problems.

Reference range values
mg/dL (SI: mmol/L = 0.323 x mg/dL)
>=18Y      2.5 - 4.8

Abnormal findings

Low levels of phosphorus are rare but may be seen with alcoholism and malnutrition. Low levels of phosphorus (hypophosphatemia) may also be due to: 
• Hypercalcemia, especially due to hyperparathyroidism 
• Overuse of diuretics 
• Severe burns 
• Diabetic ketoacidosis
• Hypothyroidism 
• Hypokalemia 
• Chronic antacid use 
• Rickets and osteomalacia
High levels of phosphorus (hyperphosphatemia) may be due to:
• Kidney failure 
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Diabetic ketoacidosis 
• Phosphate supplementation