Description

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

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