Markedly elevated serum alkaline phosphatase level in an uncomplicated pregnancy

Abstract

In normal pregnancy, although maternal serum alkaline phosphatase increases and reaches the two-fold of non-pregnant serum level, above this level, hepatic, renal, osteal diseases and malignancies should be kept in mind. We report a case of 28-year-old pregnant woman with increased maternal serum level of alkaline phosphatase activity 17-fold due to an increased level of placental isozyme. She delivered vaginally a healthy female baby. After delivery, maternal serum alkaline phosphatase activity returned to normal reference range. The aim of this case report is to show this exaggerated isozyme activity of alkaline phosphatase in pregnancy, and to differentiate it from other causes of elevated level of alkaline phosphatase. © 2009 Informa UK Ltd.