Phosphat

Phosphate is an essential mineral that plays an important role in energy metabolism, bone formation, and cell membrane structure. The laboratory value measures the concentration of inorganic phosphate in the blood.

A phosphate test is recommended for: • People with symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps or bone problems • Patients suspected of kidney or bone disease • Monitoring of patients with chronic kidney disease or calcium-phosphate metabolism disorders • Persons suspected of vitamin D deficiency or overdose • Patients suspected of parathyroid hormone disorders (hyperparathyroidism or hypoparathyroidism)

The test serves to diagnose disorders of the calcium-phosphate metabolism, as they occur in renal insufficiency, bone diseases or hormonal imbalances. It is also used to evaluate the nutritional and vitamin D status.

Here is the translation: A low phosphate level can indicate the following: • Malnutrition or malabsorption • Hyperparathyroidism (excessive phosphate excretion) • Vitamin D deficiency A high value can be caused by: • Kidney failure (reduced phosphate excretion) • Hypoparathyroidism (reduced hormone activity) • Overdose of vitamin D Symptoms of abnormal values can be: • Muscle weakness or cramps with low phosphate • Bone pain or calcifications with high phosphate

The testing can be carried out at any time of the day.

Phosphate is associated with calcium and parathyroid hormone; these values should be considered together for better interpretation. Chronic kidney diseases often lead to an increased phosphate level, which increases the risk of vascular calcification. In case of suspected rickets or osteomalacia, the phosphate value is particularly important.