Phosphorus (P)
Posted: Tuesday, August 31st, 2021 | Updated: Sunday, August 14th, 2022
Posted: Tuesday, August 31st, 2021 | Updated: Sunday, August 14th, 2022
Canine Normal Values:
2.0-6.7 mg/dL
Feline Normal Values:
2.7-7.6 mg/dL
Significance:
Used in the assessment of a variety of diseases. Phosphorus helps to maintain the acid/base balance of the cellular fluids, is a component of DNA, RNA, and some proteins, and aides in the mineralization of bones and teeth. It helps extract energy from nutrients by assisting enzymes and vitamins. Phosphorus also makes up phospholipids which are key components of cell membranes. Additionally, phosphorus helps to carry, store, and release energy
Increases in Values:
May help support the diagnosis of chronic renal failure or hypoparathyroidism. Elevations may commonly be noted in growing puppies or kittens and/or hemolysis
Decreases in Values:
Decreased values may be present in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, renal tubular acidosis, or systemic illness. Values less than 2.0 mg/dL may result in intravascular hemolysis. Values below 1 mg/dL may cause neuromuscular and/or cardiac abnormalities
Note:
Normally, calcium and phosphorus are inversely related. Phosphorus and magnesium are also inversely related
2.0-6.7 mg/dL
Feline Normal Values:
2.7-7.6 mg/dL
Significance:
Used in the assessment of a variety of diseases. Phosphorus helps to maintain the acid/base balance of the cellular fluids, is a component of DNA, RNA, and some proteins, and aides in the mineralization of bones and teeth. It helps extract energy from nutrients by assisting enzymes and vitamins. Phosphorus also makes up phospholipids which are key components of cell membranes. Additionally, phosphorus helps to carry, store, and release energy
Increases in Values:
May help support the diagnosis of chronic renal failure or hypoparathyroidism. Elevations may commonly be noted in growing puppies or kittens and/or hemolysis
Decreases in Values:
Decreased values may be present in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, renal tubular acidosis, or systemic illness. Values less than 2.0 mg/dL may result in intravascular hemolysis. Values below 1 mg/dL may cause neuromuscular and/or cardiac abnormalities
Note:
Normally, calcium and phosphorus are inversely related. Phosphorus and magnesium are also inversely related
Sources:
Ford, Richard B., and Elisa M. Mazzaferro. Kirk and Bistner's Handbook of Veterinary Procedures and Emergency Treatment. 8th ed., Saunders Elsevier, 2006.
Sizer, Frances Sienkiewicz and Ellie Whitney. Nutrition Concepts and Controversies. Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2011
Ford, Richard B., and Elisa M. Mazzaferro. Kirk and Bistner's Handbook of Veterinary Procedures and Emergency Treatment. 8th ed., Saunders Elsevier, 2006.
Sizer, Frances Sienkiewicz and Ellie Whitney. Nutrition Concepts and Controversies. Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2011