Evaluation of serum alkaline phosphatase as a marker of metastasis in early breast cancer

Abstract Introduction Breast cancer is a common worldwide healthcare problem. Identifying metastatic lesions is crucial for adequate staging. However, there is no standardized metastatic work-up in early-stage breast cancer patients. Materials and methods We retrospectively analyzed data from patients treated in a tertiary hospital for clinical early-stage breast cancer, to assess the value of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as a predictor of metastasis and as a prognostic factor. Results We detected a significant correlation between ALP and metastasis at diagnosis, and found that ALP is both a sensitive and specific marker in screening for metastasis in early-stage breast cancer. Conclusion ALP is a useful marker of metastasis at diagnosis. Further prospective studies are needed to delineate the incidence and impact of missed metastatic patients if metastatic work-up is omitted.