Phosphate, Serum

Formal Name of the Test:
Phosphate (as Phosphorus)

Other Names Used:
Inorganic Phosphate, Blood Phosphate, P, Phos, PO4

Sample Required:
Serum

Test Overview:
Serum phosphorus (Phosphate) levels by themselves have little diagnostic relevance and should be compared to serum calcium values. A high phosphorus level combined with a low calcium level indicates either hypoparathyroidism or renal illness. Hyperparathyroidism or sarcoidosis is indicated by a decrease in phosphorus and an increase in calcium. Malabsorption, vitamin D insufficiency, and renal tubular acidosis are all diagnostic considerations when both calcium and phosphorus levels are low. Milk-alkali syndrome or hypervitaminosis D is indicated by high phosphorus and normal or elevated calcium.

Test Preparation:
Fasting for 10-12 hours is required.

Test Performed at:
Quest Diagnostics, Test Code 718
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