Serum phosphorus

Alternative names:

HPO4-2; inorganic phosphate; phosphorus - serum; PO4

Normal values:

2.4 to 4.1 mg/dl

Note: ng/dl = milligrams per deciliter

What abnormal results mean:

Greater-than-normal levels may occur with:

• bone metastasis
• hypocalcemia
• hypoparathyroidism
• increased dietary or IV intake of PO4
• liver disease
• renal failure
• sarcoidosis

Lower-than-normal levels may indicate:

• diabetic ketoacidosis
• hypercalcemia
• hyperinsulinism
• hyperparathyroidism
• inadequate dietary intake of PO4 or vitamin D resulting in rickets (childhood) or osteomalacia (adult).

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) II
• secondary hyperparathyroidism