Phosphorus (P)

Why this test?

For the diagnosis of various pathological conditions that cause disturbances in phosphorus-calcium metabolism, and the control of their treatment (along with checking the level of calcium, parathyroid hormone and / or vitamin D).

In what cases is it prescribed?

• As an additional study in case of hypo- or hypercalcemia (as a moderate lack or excess of phosphorus may not manifest itself).
• With symptoms of kidney and / or gastrointestinal tract pathology.
• When pathological conditions that cause significant changes in the level of phosphorus and / or calcium have already been diagnosed (to control the effectiveness of their treatment).
• With diabetes or signs of acid-base imbalance.

Test information

Phosphorus is a mineral found in the body in the form of organic and inorganic compounds. The terms "phosphorus" and "phosphates" are interchangeable when it comes to checking the level of the substance in the body, but it is worth considering that the amount of inorganic phosphate is counted. Phosphorus is necessary for the body to produce energy, perform the functions of the muscular and nervous systems, as well as for bone growth. Phosphates, being a kind of buffer, play an important role in maintaining the acid-alkaline balance. Phosphorus enters the body with food. Being part of many food products, it is quickly absorbed in the small intestine. About 70-80% of phosphorus in the body is associated with calcium, forming the framework of bones and teeth, 10% is in muscles and about 1% in nervous tissue. The remaining part is contained in all body cells as an energy reserve. Normally, about 1% of all phosphorus is in the blood.

Many foods (beans, peas, nuts, cereals, vegetable oils, eggs, beef, chicken, fish) contain significant amounts of phosphates. A stable concentration of phosphorus is maintained by the regulation of the processes of absorption in the intestines and excretion in the kidneys. In addition, the level of phosphates depends on the amount of parathyroid hormone, calcium and vitamin D. The cause of excess phosphorus can be excessive intake of the mineral with food, hypocalcemia and kidney damage. People with a moderate deficiency of this mineral may not show symptoms of its deficiency. A significant lack of phosphorus in the body shows muscle weakness and confusion. It is interesting that the signs of excess phosphorus are similar to the symptoms of calcium deficiency: muscle cramps, numbness, loss of consciousness. Phosphorus and calcium exchanges are closely interrelated: when the concentration of calcium decreases, the level of phosphorus increases, the increased concentration of one electrolyte in the plasma leads to increased excretion of another by the kidneys with urine. Many factors that increase calcium content decrease phosphorus levels.