Synonyms: Inorganic Phosphate, Blood; P; Phos; PO4

NOTICE: This is a component of the Kidney(Function) Panel which may be more appealing than ordering this test alone.

Why It Is Done:

*To evaluate the level of phosphorus in your blood.*Aid in the diagnosis of conditions known to cause abnormally high or low levels.*Follow-up to an abnormal calcium level.*Kidney disorder.*Uncontrolled diabetes.*If you are taking calcium or phosphate supplements

Test Overview:

The serum phosphorus test measures the amount of phosphate in your blood. Normally, only a very small amount of phosphate (in the form of inorganic phosphate) is present in the blood.

In the body, phosphorus exists as a mineral; it is combined with oxygen to form a variety of phosphates (PO4). Phosphates are vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth. They also play an important role as a buffer, helping to maintain the body's acid-base balance. 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; about 1% of total body phosphorus is found within plasma (the liquid part of blood).

How To Prepare:

Patient should be fasting 10 to 12 hours