ABSTRACT
The perinatal to prepubertal period of time is characterized by rapid growth and development. Because phosphorus is an important constituent of bone and tissues, a large supply of phosphate is required in this early period for proper skeletal mineralization and tissue growth. The neonate's high metabolic demand for phosphate is met by a positive phosphate balance, which occurs as a consequence of a relatively high intake of phosphate, efficient intestinal phosphate absorption, and reduced urinary losses of phosphate. These processes are homeostatically controlled through the coordinated function of several organ systems and the integrated regulation of important hormones and other key factors.
