The other half of the couple
Phosphorus decreases with hyperparathyroidism (in the mirror of growing calcium) and increases with CKD - control on dialysis is mandatory. In stone formers, phosphate stones are associated with infections and alkaline urine: the mineral profile guides prevention. Interpretation - only together with calcium and kidney function.
When is it appointed?
- arrhythmias, cramps, muscle weakness - potassium, magnesium, calcium;
- taking diuretics and heart medications - potassium control;
- kidney stones - calcium, phosphorus, magnesium in search of the cause;
- anemia - iron, transferrin, ferritin;
- hair loss, skin, immunity - zinc.
Mineral balance
Electrolytes control heart rhythm, muscle and nerve function; their shifts are dangerous and often medicinal (diuretics, laxatives). For urology, a mineral panel is part of the metabolic diagnosis of urolithiasis: calcium, phosphorus and magnesium in the blood and urine explain why stones grow and make it possible to prescribe relapse prevention instead of endless operations.
