Differential Diagnosis for Low Alkaline Phosphatase
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hypophosphatasia: A rare genetic disorder characterized by deficient activity of alkaline phosphatase in the body, leading to low levels of this enzyme. It affects the development of bones and teeth.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vitamin D deficiency: Although more commonly associated with elevated alkaline phosphatase due to increased bone turnover, severe deficiency can lead to decreased alkaline phosphatase levels due to impaired osteoblast function.
- Malnutrition: Poor dietary intake of nutrients necessary for bone health, such as vitamin D and calcium, can lead to decreased alkaline phosphatase levels.
- Hypothyroidism: Some cases of hypothyroidism can present with low alkaline phosphatase levels, possibly due to decreased bone turnover.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Wilson's Disease: A genetic disorder leading to copper accumulation in the body, which can cause liver disease and neurological symptoms. It can also result in low alkaline phosphatase levels due to liver dysfunction.
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, potentially causing malabsorption of nutrients necessary for maintaining normal alkaline phosphatase levels.
Rare Diagnoses
- Osteopetrosis: A rare inherited disorder characterized by an increase in bone density due to a defect in bone resorption. It can lead to low alkaline phosphatase levels due to decreased bone turnover.
- Carbonic Anhydrase II Deficiency: A rare genetic disorder affecting bone health, leading to osteopetrosis and renal tubular acidosis, which can result in low alkaline phosphatase levels.