Phosphorus-Inorganic, Serum

The test is done when abnormal levels of phosphorus are suspected i.e., kidney and bone disease, parathyroid gland disorders. 
Some symptoms of low phosphorus levels include, altered mental state, bone issues, irregular breathing, and fatigue. 
A phosphorus test may also be recommended in case of abnormal blood calcium results as calcium and phosphorus work in association in the body.

1. Assess phosphorus levels in cases of kidney and bone diseases or parathyroid gland abnormalities.
2. Evaluate patients with symptoms of low phosphorus levels that manifest as impaired mental states, bone problems, respiratory problems, and weariness.
3. Assess phosphorous levels in case of abnormal blood calcium readings.

The phosphorus serum test measures the amount of phosphorus in the blood. Phosphorus is required by the body in very small amounts. The excess phosphorus is filtered and removed from the body by the kidneys. The test thus measures effective functioning of the kidneys as well.

The blood level of phosphorus is determined by the phosphorus serum test. The body needs phosphorus, but only at very minute levels. The kidneys filter and eliminate the extra phosphorus from the body. Measuring the blood level of phosphorous shows how effectively the kidneys are functioning.

The blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a  little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

High phosphorus levels maybe due to kidney disorders, diabetic ketoacidosis, liver diseases, hypoparathyroidism, hypocalcaemia, excess phosphorus in the diet and even due to certain medications. 
Low phosphorus levels may occur due to hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, lack of phosphorus in the diet, alcoholism and malnutrition.

A Serum Phosphorus-Inorganic test is ordered when there is an abnormal calcium test reading or signs of an abnormal calcium level, such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and cramps, or bone problems.

High phosphorus levels do not always cause symptoms. Extra phosphorus in your blood, can remove calcium from your bones and other parts of your body, resulting in low calcium and symptoms of calcium deficiency. In these cases, Serum Phosphorous (Inorganic) is also tested. You should also get tested if you suffer from symptoms such as:

1. Altered mental conditions such as anxiety, irritability, or confusion.
2. Bone pain, weak bones, and poor growth and development in children.
3. Unsteady breathing and exhaustion.
4. Reduced appetite.
5. Muscle tremors.

A tourniquet (elastic) band is tightly wrapped around the upper arm, and a fist is made by the patient. This aids in the accumulation of blood in the veins, making it easier to collect blood. To prevent bacteria from entering the vein, the skin is cleaned before inserting the needle. A small needle is used to draw a blood sample from the vein that is collected in a vacutainer. You may experience a sting when the needle enters and exits your vein, but this is a transient discomfort that lasts for a few minutes. You may experience some bleeding, bruising, or soreness where the needle was inserted. But this will fade away in a couple of days.

A variety of medications, including antacids, vitamin D supplements, and medications containing sodium phosphate, can affect your phosphorus levels. You must disclose all the medications that you take to your doctor. They may advise you to temporarily discontinue any medications that may have an impact on the test results.

High phosphorus levels (hyperphosphataemia) can be caused by too much phosphorus in the diet, liver disease, low parathyroid hormone levels, low calcium levels in the blood, kidney problems, or untreated diabetic ketoacidosis.

Low phosphorus levels (hypophosphataemia) can be caused by malnutrition, hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, a diet low in phosphorus, long-term use of antacids, and drinking too much alcohol.

Phosphorus tests are usually done with other tests, like those for calcium, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and/or vitamin D, to assess the progress of treatment for different illnesses that cause calcium and phosphorus imbalances.

• Phosphorus Serum
• HPO4-2
• PO4-3
• Inorganic phosphate
• Serum phosphorus