Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test 2026 - Free ADC Practice Questions and Study Guide

Paget's disease of bone is characterized by abnormal and excessive bone remodeling, which leads to changed bone structure. One of the hallmark laboratory findings associated with Paget's disease is an elevation in alkaline phosphatase levels. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme related to bone metabolism, and its elevated levels indicate increased osteoblastic activity and turnover of bone.

In individuals with Paget's disease, calcium and phosphate levels typically remain within normal ranges. This is because, although the bone is being remodeled rapidly, the overall balance of calcium and phosphate in the bloodstream is maintained. The normal calcium and phosphate levels suggest that there is no primary metabolic disturbance affecting these minerals, distinguishing Paget's disease from other conditions that might cause prominent changes in these electrolytes.

Thus, the combination of normal calcium and phosphate levels along with elevated alkaline phosphatase provides a clear diagnostic marker for Paget's disease and reflects the nature of the disease process itself.