title: A case of respiratory failure complicated by acute hypophosphataemia.
abstract: Respiratory failure due to an exacerbation of chronic obstructive airways disease is often seen by clinicians. A case in which respiratory failure was further complicated by acute hypophosphataemia is reported. Replacement phosphate therapy resulted in a dramatic improvement in the clinical condition of the patient. The aetiology of the hypophosphataemia was thought to be a combination of acidosis, and the administration of corticosteroids, 5% dextrose and antacids. It is suggested that hypophosphataemia may account in part for the poor prognosis associated with severe exacerbations of chronic obstructive airways disease.
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010710:Phosphates / Q000097:blood* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012131:Respiratory Insufficiency / Q000097:blood* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D010710:Phosphates