The minerals calcium and phosphate work together to help build strong bones and teeth and also play a role in cell and nerve function. The balance of calcium and phosphate in the body is regulated by a hormone called parathyroid hormone. If this feedback loop is disrupted it can cause phosphate to build up in your body which binds to calcium and can weaken your bones. Circulating phosphate and calcium can narrow your blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
What we test
Bone Health
These bone health markers are part of a complex feedback loop that play a critical role in maintaining bone health. When you don’t get enough calcium, you increase your risk of developing osteoporosis and stress fractures.
Plays a critical role in developing and maintaining your overall bone health. If the total calcium result is abnormal, a corrected calcium calculation provides further information.
Most phosphate in the body comes from foods such as beans, peas and nuts, cereals, dairy products, eggs, beef, chicken and fish contain small amounts of phosphate. Phosphates are vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, and bone growth.
PTH helps maintain stable levels of calcium in the blood and is part of a ‘feedback loop’ that includes calcium, PTH, vitamin D, phosphate and magnesium. Conditions that disrupt this feedback loop can cause inappropriate increases or decreases in calcium and PTH levels.
Magnesium and calcium work together closely to maintain strong bones, and magnesium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis.
Test instructions
Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken - no need for an appointment.
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