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🧪 What is the Phosphorus Test?

The Phosphorus test (Serum Phosphate) measures the amount of inorganic phosphate in the blood.
Phosphorus is a vital mineral involved in:

It is primarily stored in bones (85%) and regulated by the kidneys, parathyroid hormone (PTH), vitamin D, and dietary intake.

❓ Why is the Test Done?

To:

📊 Normal Ranges

Population	Normal Range
Adults	2.5 – 4.5 mg/dL
Children	4.5 – 6.5 mg/dL

Ranges may vary slightly by laboratory.

📈 Interpretation of Results

🔽 Low Phosphorus (Hypophosphatemia)

Possible Causes
Hyperparathyroidism
Chronic alcoholism
Vitamin D deficiency
Refeeding syndrome
Malabsorption
Renal tubular disorders (Fanconi syndrome)

Symptoms: Muscle weakness, fatigue, bone pain, irritability, seizures

🔼 High Phosphorus (Hyperphosphatemia)

Possible Causes
Chronic kidney disease
Hypoparathyroidism
Excess vitamin D
Tumor lysis syndrome
Hemolysis or rhabdomyolysis
Laxative abuse (phosphate-based)

Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but can cause calcium-phosphate deposits in tissues and secondary hypocalcemia

🧠 Associated Organs & Systems

Organ/System	Associated Conditions
Kidneys	CKD, tubular disorders, phosphate retention
Parathyroid	Hyper/hypoparathyroidism
Bones	Osteomalacia, rickets
GI Tract	Malabsorption, diarrhea

🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests

✅ Fasting Required?

Test	Fasting Required
Phosphorus	❌ Not mandatory, but 8–12 hour fasting preferred for consistency in calcium-phosphate studies

📝 Summary Table

Parameter	Details
What	Measures inorganic phosphate in blood
Why	Evaluate bone/kidney/parathyroid disorders, electrolyte balance
Normal Range	Adults: 2.5–4.5 mg/dL; Higher in children
High Level	CKD, hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D excess
Low Level	Alcoholism, vitamin D deficiency, malabsorption, PTH excess
Associated Systems	Kidneys, bones, endocrine
Follow-up Tests	Calcium, PTH, Vitamin D, ALP, KFT
Fasting Required	❌ No (✅ Preferred if ordered with calcium/PTH)

Phosphorus