Phosphate in Blood

Blood Phosphate (PO4), PO4 (Phosphate), Blood

Results

A phosphate test measures the amount of phosphate in a blood sample. Phosphate is a charged particle (ion) that contains the mineral phosphorus. Phosphate levels are usually higher in children than in adults because of the active bone growth occurring in children.

Results are usually available within 1 to 2 hours.

Normal

Normal values may vary from lab to lab.

Phosphate in blood

	Milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)	Millimoles per liter (mmol/L)
Adults:	3.0–4.5	0.97–1.45
Children:	4.5–6.5	1.45–2.10
Babies:	4.3–9.3	1.4–3.0

 

High values

High phosphate levels may be caused by:

• Kidney disease, underactive parathyroid glands (hypoparathyroidism), acromegaly, rhabdomyolysis, healing fractures, untreated diabetic ketoacidosis, or certain bone diseases.
• Too much vitamin D in the body.
• A decrease in magnesium levels.
• Pregnancy.

Low values

Low phosphate levels may be caused by:

• Hyperparathyroidism, certain bone diseases (such as osteomalacia), lack of vitamin D, severe burns, or some kidney or liver diseases.
• Severe malnutrition or starvation.
• A condition such as sprue that prevents the intestines from absorbing nutrients properly.
• Alcohol dependence.
• High calcium levels.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: November 27, 2007
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology & Metabolism
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