[Role of excessive phosphorus consumption in the development of aortic calcinosis]

The calcium and phosphorus content was studied in the blood serum and in the aorta of rats fed with varying Ca:P ratio in their diets (2:1; 1:1; 1:2; 1:3). In rats kept on a 1:3 Ca:P diet hypocalcemia, hyperphosphotemia and intensive calcination of the aorta was observed. Some accumulation of calcium in the aorta was noted also with a 1:2 Ca:P diet. The possible role of excessive phosphorus consumption is discussed as a factor contributing to the development of aortic calcinosis, emphasizing the need to precise and carefully maintain an optimum Ca:P ratio in the diet of normal individuals and in that of cardiovascular patients.