ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Hypophosphatemia

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Hypophosphatemia

Definition

Hypophosphatemia is a low level of phosphorus in the blood.

Alternative Names

Low blood phosphate; Phosphate - low

Causes

Various conditions may cause hypophosphatemia, including:

Alcoholism
Starvation
Vitamin D deficiency

Symptoms

Anemia due to excess destruction of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia)
Confusion
Heart muscle damage (cardiomyopathy)
Muscle weakness

Treatment

Treating the cause of hypophosphatemia is needed to correct the phosphorous deficiency. Phosphate can be given by mouth or through a vein.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook depends on the disease causing the condition.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if you have muscle weakness or confusion.

Yu ASL. Disorders of magnesium and phosphorous. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 120.

Review Date: 10/10/2008
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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