Learn about Test for Phosphorous

Phosphorus, with the symbol P and atomic number 15, is a chemical element. Phosphorus consists of two distinct primary forms: white phosphorus and red phosphorus, however, it is never discovered as a free element on Earth owing to its high reactivity. It has a concentration of roughly one gramme per kilogram in the Earth’s crust (compare copper at about 0.06 grams). Phosphate is by far the most prevalent example of phosphorus in minerals.

In 1669, white phosphorus was the first element to be separated. When white phosphorus is exposed to oxygen, it creates a faint light, thus the name, which comes from Greek mythology.

Phosphorus blood test

The quantity of phosphate in the blood is measured by a phosphorus blood test.

What is the Purpose of the Test?

Phosphorus is a mineral that the body needs to maintain healthy bones and teeth. Nerve signalling and muscle contraction are also dependent on it.

This test is performed to determine the amount of phosphorus in your blood. Abnormal phosphorus levels can be caused by kidney, liver, and certain bone illnesses.

The normal range of values is

• 2.8 to 4.5 mg/dL in adults
• 4.0 to 7.0 mg/dL in children

The accepted range ranges may change between several laboratories. Some laboratories test different samples or use different measures. Discuss the significance of your specific test findings with your healthcare professional.

Serum Phosphorus test

Phosphorus is an essential element that is required for various physiological functions in the body. It aids bone growth, energy storage, nerve and muscle creation, and bone growth. Because phosphorus is found in so many foods, especially meat and dairy products, getting enough of this element in your diet is typically simple.

The majority of the phosphorus in your body is found in your bones and teeth. You do, however, have some phosphorus in your blood. A serum phosphorus test can be used by your doctor to determine your blood phosphorus level.

A serum phosphorus test can tell you if your phosphorus levels are high or low, but it won’t assist your doctor figure out what’s causing your problem. To figure out what’s causing the abnormal serum phosphorus test results, your doctor will need to do further tests.

Symptoms of high or low Phosphorus level

Low Phosphorus level

The following signs and symptoms may suggest that your phosphorus level is too low:

• alterations in your mood (for example, anxiety, irritability, or confusion)
• Children’s bone problems, such as discomfort, fragility, and poor development
• breathing problems
• fatigue
• a decrease in appetite
• muscle weakness
• gaining or losing weight

If your blood phosphorus level is too high, you might develop deposits of phosphorus and calcium in your arteries. These deposits can sometimes be seen in the muscles. They’re uncommon, occurring exclusively in patients who have significant calcium absorption issues or renal difficulties. Excess phosphorus is more typically linked to cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

If the findings of a blood calcium test were abnormal, your doctor may prescribe a serum phosphorus test. Your body must maintain a precise balance of calcium and phosphorus levels. An abnormal calcium test result might suggest that your phosphorus levels are also abnormal.

High Phosphorus level

If your kidney function is hindered, excess phosphorus will certainly build up in your circulation. Low phosphorus levels can be achieved by avoiding high-phosphorus foods such as milk, nuts, beans, and liver.

High phosphorus levels can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when your body runs out of insulin and begins to burn fatty acids instead
• certain medications, such as phosphate-containing laxatives
• dietary issues, such as consuming too much phosphate or vitamin D
• diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when your body runs out of insulin and begins to burn fatty acids instead
• hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood
• hypoparathyroidism, or reduced parathyroid gland function, which results in low parathyroid hormone levels
• liver disease

Low phosphorus levels can be caused by a variety of dietary issues and medical diseases, such as:

• antacid usage on a regular basis
• deficiency in vitamin D
• inadequate phosphorus intake –malnutrition
• alcoholism
• hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood)
• severe burns -hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands) –

Test for Phosphorus

To convert phosphorus to phosphate, the organic component is heated using an oxidising agent. After that, the solution is concentrated and treated with ammonium molybdate. The presence of phosphorus is confirmed by the appearance of yellow precipitate.

The following is the reaction: