Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus in the blood.
Causes
The following may cause hypophosphatemia:
- Alcoholism
- Antacids
- Certain medicines, including insulin, acetazolamide, foscarnet, imatinib, pentamidine, and sorafenib
- Fanconi syndrome
- Starvation
- Too little vitamin D
- Overactive parathyroid gland (hyperparathyroidism)
- Burns
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 D 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 provider if you have muscle weakness or confusion.
Alternative Names
Low blood phosphate; Phosphate - low; Hyperparathyroidism - low phosphate
References
Klemm KM, Klein MJ. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 23rd ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2017:chap 15.
Yu ASL. Disorders of magnesium and phosphorous. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 119.
Review Date 2/7/2017
Updated by: Laura J. Martin, MD, MPH, ABIM Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Atlanta, GA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
