Overview

A phosphate test is used to measures the level of phosphate in the blood.

Phosphate is a chemical that contains the mineral phosphorus. Phosphates are essential for the production of energy, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth.

Phosphate tests are very useful for measuring phosphate levels in people who are malnourished (where their diet doesn't contain the right amount of nutrients to meet the body's demands).

A phosphate test can also be used to check for a condition called ketoacidosis, which sometimes affects people with diabetes.

If you have ketoacidosis, your body cannot use blood glucose as an energy source due to a lack of insulin (a hormone that controls blood sugar levels).

Phosphate tests can also be used to help diagnose digestive system conditions that interfere with the absorption of phosphate, calcium and magnesium.

Phosphate levels need to be carefully monitored in people with chronic kidney disease.

Read more about the phosphate test at Lab Tests Online UK.