Phos
Medical abbreviation · Laboratory Test
| Stands for | Phosphorus (serum phosphate) |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
Phos stands for Phosphorus (serum phosphate), a laboratory test abbreviation.
Serum inorganic phosphate, reported as phosphorus, with an adult range of about 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL and higher normal values in growing children. High levels are typical of chronic kidney disease, while low levels occur in refeeding syndrome, alcohol use disorder and during treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.
Example: Phos 1.1 on day two of tube feeds; refeeding syndrome suspected, feeds slowed.
Usage notes
Also written PO4 or "phos" in sign-outs. A sharp fall in phosphate after nutrition is restarted in a starved patient is the hallmark of refeeding syndrome and can cause respiratory muscle weakness and heart failure. In dialysis patients, high phosphate drives vascular calcification and is managed with diet and phosphate binders.
Related abbreviations
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- PaCO2 – Partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide
- PaO2 – Partial pressure of arterial oxygen
- PBS – Peripheral blood smear
- PCR – Polymerase chain reaction
- PCT – Procalcitonin
- Plt – Platelet count
- POCT – Point-of-care testing
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- PT – Prothrombin time
- PT/INR – Prothrombin time with international normalized ratio
- PTT – Partial thromboplastin time
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.