Phosphorous, serum
Phosphorous, serum
Phosphorus is a necessary mineral that helps in several vital bodily functions such as bone growth, energy storage, and nerve and muscle production. This mineral works together with calcium to help build strong bones and muscles.
A serum phosphorous test measures the amount of phosphorous (high or low) in the blood of an individual. Any abnormalities in the levels of this mineral may be an indication of a number of conditions, including vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, and cardiac problems.
Other names for serum phosphorous are Phosphorous test, P, PO4
Symptoms of Phosphorus Imbalance
The test is indicated when a calcium test is abnormal or when the following symptoms appear.:
Fatigue
Muscle weakness
Cramping
Bone problems
Kidney stones
Who should get tested?
This test is recommended for individuals with following conditions,
Abnormal calcium tests
Gastrointestinal disorders
Kidney diseases
Bone disorders
Diabetes mellitus
Take phosphorous/calcium supplements
Test preparation:
A healthcare provider will take fasting blood samples from a vein in your arm. You will be instructed to fast for at least 8–10 hours before undergoing the test.
Please tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any medications or mineral or vitamin supplements before undergoing the test
Interpretation of results
The test results for serum phosphorous are usually available as high or low with reference to the normal ranges.
Normal range: 3.4–4.5 mg/dL (milligrams per decilitre)
Deviations from the normal ranges:
· Higher phosphorous levels than normal may be due to or associated with underlying conditions such as kidney failure, liver disease (cirrhosis), hypoparathyroidism, diabetic ketoacidosis, increased dietary intake of phosphorous, the spread of cancer to the bones, vitamin D toxicity, etc.
· Lower phosphorous levels than normal may be due to or associated with underlying conditions such as increased serum calcium, overuse of diuretics, malnutrition or malabsorption of phosphorous, chronic alcoholism, severe burns, hypothyroidism, diabetic ketoacidosis (post-treatment), chronic antacid use, haemolysis, etc.
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for serum phosphorous test?
The test results of serum phosphorous test are usually available within 2–3 working days after the sample collection. However, it could take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with serum phosphorous test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with serum phosphorous test. However, all blood tests involve negligible risks, such as feeling a slight sting or bruise at the site of sample collection. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a few hours. Rarely, the site can become infected
Is phosphorous deficiency a reversible condition?
Yes, it is a reversible condition. A proper diet that contains phosphorous or a phosphorous supplement may help you reverse your phosphorous deficiency.
Foods that are rich in phosphorous may include:
· Meat and poultry
· Fish
· Milk and other dairy products
· Eggs
· Whole grains
· Potatoes
· Garlic
· Dried fruits
What medicines can affect my serum phosphorous levels?
A few medications could interfere with phosphorous absorption in your body. They include,
· Insulin
· Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
· Corticosteroids
· Antacids
· Anticonvulsants
What is the recommended dietary intake for phosphorous per day?
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for phosphorous per day is as follows:
|
Age group |
Daily intake |
|
Infants – Age 0 to 6 months Age 7 to 12 months |
100 mg 275 mg |
|
Children – Age 1 to 3 years Age 4 to 8 years Age 9 to 18 years |
460 mg 500 mg 1250 mg |
|
Adults – Age 19 and above |
700 mg |
Adults require less phosphorous than children aged 9 to 18 years but more than children aged 8 years
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