Phosphorus, Serum

Phosphorus is one of the essential and the second most abundant minerals found in the human body, after calcium. Its primary function is to provide structural strength and integrity to bones and teeth. Phosphorus regulates the normal function of nerves and muscles, including the heart, and is also a building block of our genetic material, DNA. It also plays an important role as a buffer, by maintaining the body’s acid-base balance.

Phosphorus deficiency (hypophosphatemia) may be seen with malnutrition, malabsorption, acid-base imbalances, increased blood calcium, and diseases that affect kidney function such as uncontrolled diabetes. Excessive phosphorus (hyperphosphatemia) may be seen with increased intake of the mineral, low blood calcium, etc. The Phosphorus, Serum test aids in diagnosing abnormally high or low levels of phosphorus.

Your doctor may advise the Phosphorus, Serum test if you show symptoms of abnormal phosphorus levels. It should be noted that someone with mild to moderate phosphorus deficiency often shows no symptoms. However, symptoms of severe phosphorus deficiency may include muscle weakness, anxiety, irritability, numbness, confusion, slow growth in children, bone pains, bone fragility, etc. An excess or overload of phosphorus may cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, bone and joint pain, weak and brittle bones, and even seizures.

Usually, overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory before undergoing the Phosphorus, Serum test. However, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as some of them may affect your test results. Doctors may ask you to temporarily discontinue some medicines before the test. 

Reference ranges are approximate and may vary based on factors such as age, gender, medical history, etc. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The doctor may suggest some lifestyle modifications including dietary changes to manage your condition.