Alternative Names & Classifications:
Hypophosphatemia (CLINICAL)
Description
Phosphorus is the second most abundant mineral in the body, integral to bone structure, DNA formation, and the creation of ATP (cellular energy). Severe deficiency is rare from diet alone but occurs commonly during 'refeeding syndrome' in malnourished patients or due to chronic antacid abuse binding the mineral. Systemic depletion causes acute cellular energy failure and structural breakdown.