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Serum phosphorus



Blood test
Blood test


Serum phosphorus

Alternative Names:

Phosphorus - serum; PO4; Inorganic phosphate; HPO4-2
What the risks are:
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Fainting or feeling lightheaded
  • Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
  • Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
  • Multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations:


Antacids can bind PO4 and decrease absorption.

Nonpharmacological factors that can affect PO4 measurements include: enemas containing sodium phosphate, excess vitamin D supplements, and intravenous glucose administration (because PO4 enters cells along with glucose).

Drugs that can increase PO4 measurements include: laxatives containing Na2HPO4 (sodium phosphate), methicillin, and excess vitamin D or 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D.

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.




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