Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus in the blood.
Causes
The following may cause hypophosphatemia:
- Alcoholism
- Antacids
- Certain medicines, including acetazolamide, foscarnet, imatinib, pentamidine, and sorafenib
- Fanconi syndrome
- Starvation
- Too little vitamin D
- Overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism)
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Bone pain
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
Exams and Tests
Your health care provider will examine you.
The following tests may be done:
- Kidney function tests
- Vitamin K blood test
Exam and testing may show:
- Anemia due to too many red blood cells being destroyed (hemolytic anemia)
- Heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy)
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Phosphate can be given by mouth or through a vein (IV).
Outlook (Prognosis)
How well you do depends on what has caused the condition.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have muscle weakness or confusion.
Alternative Names
Low blood phosphate; Phosphate - low
References
Yu ASL. Disorders of magnesium and phosphorous. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 121.
Update Date 11/9/2014
Updated by: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
