Phosphate

Background

• Key role in energy metabolism (ATP), bone structure, and acid-base buffering

Normal Values

• Normal: 2.5-4.5 mg/dL

Interpretation

• Hypophosphatemia (<2.5 mg/dL): alcohol use, refeeding syndrome, DKA treatment, respiratory alkalosis
  • Severe (<1.0 mg/dL): rhabdomyolysis, respiratory failure, hemolytic anemia, seizures
  • Treat severe cases with IV sodium or potassium phosphate
• Hyperphosphatemia (>4.5 mg/dL): renal failure (most common), rhabdomyolysis, tumor lysis syndrome
  • Can precipitate with calcium causing soft tissue calcification and acute hypocalcemia

See Also

• DKA
• Refeeding syndrome
• Tumor lysis syndrome
• Rhabdomyolysis