On the Cause of the Elevation of Serum Phosphatase in Jaundice

Numerous attempts have been made clinically to differentiate between the various kinds of jaundice by means of the serum phosphatase determination (l-6). The conclusions drawn from such studies ar’e conflicting and leave one with no clear impression as to the merits of the test for the purpose mentioned above. In clinical studies in which neither autopsy nor operation is performed the correct diagnosis remains questionable in many instances. This experimental work on the dog was undertaken because of the uncertain status of the phosphatase test in various types of jaundice and with the idea that information might be gained which would bear on the question of the source of the elevation of serum phosphatase in obstructive jaundice. This report includes serum phosphatase determinations in six conditions that involve the liver; they are (1) leptospiral infection, (2) carbon tetrachloride administration, (3) bile fistula formation, (4) common bile duct obstruction, (5) obstruction of part of the hepatic bile ducts, and (6) removal of a portion of the liver.