Metabolic bone disorders. Imbalances of calcium and phosphorus.

This article describes the physiology of normal calcium and phosphorus metabolism and the influences of various hormonal agents. Clinical variables affecting the interpretation of calcium are explained. In addition, the effects of calcium and phosphorus excess and deficiency are described according to the nursing model. Two metabolic bone disorders, osteoporosis and renal osteodystrophy, are discussed in order to demonstrate the altered metabolic effects of calcium and phosphorus.