What does low serum alkaline phosphatase mean?
Disease description:
My sister-in-law called to say that her son’s serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level is low, and the family is very concerned. What does a low serum alkaline phosphatase level mean?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Guoqiang
Low serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels may result from severe anemia in the patient. Other potential causes include malnutrition, severe nephritis, and hypothyroidism. In cretinism—caused by deficient thyroid hormone secretion—low serum ALP levels may also occur. Patients with low serum ALP should seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a local hospital.
