Assessment of hyperphosphatemia and hypophosphatemia

Methodologic aspects including causes of factitious hyperphosphatemia and hypophosphatemia are summarized. The differential diagnosis of hyperphosphatemia is reviewed under its three broad causes: decreased glomerular filtration rate, increased exogenous or endogenous phosphate load, and increased renal tubular phosphate reabsorption. The differential diagnosis of hypophosphatemia is reviewed under its three broad causes: inadequate gastrointestinal input, excess phosphate losses, and transcellular shifts. The consequences of hyperphosphatemia and hypophosphatemia are outlined with a focus on pathophysiologic and clinicochemical sequelae. A laboratory perspective is emphasized in outlining management strategies.