Hyperphosphatemia is defined as a serum phosphorus concentration exceeding 5 mg/dl in adults, although a serum phosphorus concentration up to 6 mg/dl may be considered physiologic in children and adolescents. Most often chronic hyperphosphatemia is due to acute or chronic renal failure.
Hyperphosphatemia can result from:
*Redistribution of phosphorus from intracellular compartments to extracellular fluid. It may due to neoplastic diseases such as leukemia and lymphoma. In addition may be cause by increased catabolism and respiratory acidosis.
*Increased gastrointestinal intake and absorption, or intravenous administration of phosphorus. This due to pharmacologic administration of vitamin D metabolites or ingestion of phosphate salts.
*Reduce renal phosphorus excretion, either because of decreased glomerular filtration or increased tubular reabsorption of phosphorus
Hyperphosphatemia is a common finding; it is observed an approximately 3% of all hospitals patients, 10% of hospitalized alcoholic patients and 70% of ventilated patients in intensive care.
Hyperphosphatemia is usually asymptomatic, but in renal failure, chronic hyperphosphatemia leads to secondary hyperparathyroidism.
The manifestations of acute hyperphosphatemia are related mainly due to those of the accompanying hypocalcaemia, tetany, muscle cramps, paresthesias, and seizures.
Hyperphosphatemia
