What Are the Causes of Low Alkaline Phosphatase?

Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that is primarily made in the liver and bones, though it is also made in the intestines, kidneys and the placenta of a pregnant woman. The liver manufactures the largest amount of alkaline phosphatase.

Identifying Low Alkaline Phosphates

• Identifying low alkaline phosphatase is conducted through a simple blood test. If the value is determined to be low, further testing is indicated to discover the cause.

Significance of Low Alkaline Phosphates

• The significance and causes of low alkaline phosphatase may indicate certain conditions such as malnutrition, celiac disease, hypothyroidism, magnesium and zinc deficiency, anemia and menopause.

Prevention/Solution for Low Alkaline Phosphates

• Solutions to low alkaline phosphatase levels include treating the underlying cause. In the incidence of hypothyroidism, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is indicated. Magnesium and zinc deficiencies can be managed with supplementation, and anemia can be controlled with iron supplements.

Time Frame for Treating Low Alkaline Phosphates

• Low alkaline phosphatase may indicate conditions that cause symptoms such as fatigue, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, intolerance to cold, constipation and severe weight loss. It is important to receive timely medical intervention at the first indication of these symptoms.

Considerations for Individual With Low Alkaline Phosphates

• Alkaline phosphatase blood levels should be measured only if the patient fasted because levels increase after eating. If the patient does not fast, test results may not be accurate.