Multiple choice

High serum alkaline phosphatase in a person having jaundice indicates

  1. hepatic carcinoma

  2. gall stones

  3. hemolytic anemia

  4. pancreatitis
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

In a jaundiced patient, elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) suggests obstructive (cholestatic) jaundice. Gall stones are a common cause of extrahepatic biliary obstruction. The obstruction causes ALP (which is present in biliary epithelium) to leak into the bloodstream. Hepatic carcinoma would also elevate ALP but is less common than gallstones. Hemolytic anemia and pancreatitis do not typically cause elevated ALP.

Keep practicing — related questions