Hypophosphatemia

Definition

Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus in the blood.

Alternative Names

Low blood phosphate; Phosphate - low

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Many conditions may cause hypophosphatemia, including:

  • Diarrhea (chronic)
  • Starvation
  • Vitamin D deficiency

Symptoms

  • Bone pain
  • Confusion
  • Muscle weakness

Signs and tests

Treatment

Treating the cause of hypophosphatemia is needed to correct the phosphorous deficiency. Phosphate can be given by mouth or through a vein.

Support Groups

Expectations (prognosis)

The outlook depends on the disease causing the condition.

Complications

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have muscle weakness or confusion.

Prevention

References

Pollak MR, Yu ASL, Taylor EN. Disorders of calcium, magnesium, and phosphate balance. In: Brenner BM, ed. Brenner and Rector's The Kidney. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 16.

Yu ASL. Disorders of magnesium and phosphorous. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 120.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).