Alkaline phosphatase

There are several isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), with the largest amounts found in the placenta, kidney, liver, and gut. Diseases of the liver, bones, intestines, and parathyroid glands are diagnosed with ALP, and treatment is monitored. ALP increases are lowest in hepatocellular disease and largest in cholestatic disease, especially in cases of obstructive jaundice and infiltrative disease. ALP is also higher in skeletal system illnesses such as Paget's disease, hyperparathyroidism, rickets and osteomalacia, fractures, and malignant tumours that involve osteoblast hyperactivity and bone remodelling. Sometimes, children's enhanced ALP activity is linked to increased osteoblast activity that follows faster bone growth.