PHOSPHORUS

A phosphorus test, also known as a phosphate blood test, measures the amount of phosphorus in your blood. Phosphorus is a mineral that helps build strong bones and teeth, and is important for nerve signaling and muscle contraction.

A phosphorus test is often used to help diagnose or monitor conditions such as: Kidney disease, Bone disorders, Parathyroid disorders, Diabetes, and Acid-base imbalance.

Abnormal phosphorus levels can be caused by:

Certain medicines, such as laxatives that contain phosphate

Alcoholism

Hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood)

To perform the test, a technician will:

Clean the skin on your arm

Insert a needle into a vein, usually in your elbow or the back of your hand

Collect blood into a tube

Remove the needle and stop any bleeding

Label the tube and send it to a lab

Normal phosphorus levels vary by age and gender, but are generally between 2.8 and 4.5 mg/dL for adults and 4.0 to 7.0 mg/dL for children