Short Name: PHO
Sample required: Serum
Result Time: 1 Days
About 70% to 80% of the phosphates are combined with calcium to help form bones and teeth, about 10% are found in muscle, and about 1% is in nerve tissue. The rest is found within cells throughout the body, where it is mainly used to store energy. Phosphorus testing is used to help diagnose and evaluate the severity of conditions and diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, interfering with the absorption of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. Testing also can help to diagnose disorders that affect the kidneys, interfering with mineral excretion and conservation, and phosphorus levels are carefully monitored in people with kidney failure. LOW phosphate levels in the blood are mainly associated with primary hyperparathyroidism, rickets, malnutrition, malabsorption and osteomalacia. HIGH levels are usually due to renal insufficiency or hypoparathyroidism but might also be associated with vitamin D poisoning, a bone tumor or leukemia. Phosphate levels demonstrate a significant increase in concentration during the day