A case of respiratory failure complicated by acute hypophosphataemia

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.