Benign elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase, transient and persistent variety.

Markedly increased serum concentration of alkaline phosphatase (AP) was discovered in seven children. Investigation showed the finding to be benign in each case. Family survey and follow-up studies revealed a familial pattern in four children and a transient, idiopathic origin in the other three. Awareness of these benign forms of hyperphosphatasemia will aid the physician in the interpretation of elevated AP.