Descriptions

ALP Test

About The Test

The enzyme known as Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that is found in all tissues of the body. Tissues containing higher ALP amounts include the liver, bile drains, and bone.

A blood test is carried out to determine the level of ALP.

Another test that is similar to it is called that of the ALP Isoenzyme Test.

Alternative Names

Alkaline phosphatase

What is the test's purpose?

A blood sample will be required. Blood is often taken from a vein in the inner part of elbows or on the hand's back.

How can you prepare for the test?

You shouldn't consume any food or drink for six hours before the test unless your health care doctor advises you otherwise.

Many medications can alter the results of blood tests.

• The doctor will inform you when you must stop taking any medication before taking this test.

• Do not stop or alter your medications without consulting your physician first.

What the Test Will Feel

There may be slight discomfort or a sting as the needle is introduced. There may be bleeding at the location after the blood has been drawn.

What is the reason for performing the test?

The test can be conducted:

• To diagnose liver or bone disease

• To see if the treatment for those ailments are working

• In an annual liver function test

Normal Results

The usual interval is between 44 and 147 international units per Liter (IU/L), equivalent to 0.73 to 2.45 microkatal per Liter (ukat/L).

Average values can vary between laboratories. It is also possible to see a difference concerning gender and age. The highest levels of ALP are usually observed in children who are undergoing growth spurts and pregnant women.

These examples show typical measurements used for the results of these tests. Different laboratories may use different measurements or test various specimens.

What do abnormal results mean?

The abnormal results could result from the following circumstances:

ALP levels higher than normal

• The obstruction of the biliary tract

• Bone disease

• A meal that is fatty when you are a blood type B or O

• Healing fracture

• Hepatitis

• Hyperparathyroidism

• Leukemia

• Liver disease

• Lymphoma

• Osteoblastic bone tumours

• Osteomalacia

• Paget disease

• Rickets

• Sarcoidosis

ALP levels lower than normal

• Hypophosphatasia

• Malnutrition

• Protein deficiency

• Wilson disease

Other conditions under which the test can be conducted:

• Alcoholic liver disease (hepatitis/cirrhosis)

• Alcoholism

• The stricture of the biliary tract

• Gallstones

• Giant cell (temporal and cranial) arteritis

• Multiple endocrine neoplasias (MEN) II

• Pancreatitis

• Renal cell carcinoma