Understanding Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Causes & Conditions

Alkaline phosphatase is a chemical called an enzyme found naturally in the body. Levels of this enzyme in the blood can rise due to a number of medical conditions.

Liver Problems

• A number of problems in the liver can lead to elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase. According to the University of Michigan Health System, these include cancer, infection, blockage from a gallstone or tumor, damage caused by toxins and inflammation from some medications.

Bone Disease

• Bone diseases, including bone cancers, can cause the level of alkaline phosphatase to rise, according to the University of Michigan Health System.

Growth

• High levels of alkaline phosphatase are found in growing people and during growth spurts, so alkaline phosphatase tests are not often performed on children, according to Medline Plus.

Other Reasons

• Other causes for elevated alkaline phosphatase include hormone problems, not having enough Vitamin D, kidney disease and pregnancy, according to the University of Michigan Health System.

Considerations

• Laboratories testing for alkaline phosphatase have differing normal ranges, so a doctor can help his patient interpret his results appropriately, according to Medline Plus.