What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of Alkaline phosphatase in the body. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, especially liver and bones. It has a unique quality of breaking down molecules into smaller parts.
Why is this test performed?
- To evaluate the function of liver
- To help in the diagnosis of liver disease/damage
- To help in the diagnosis of bone diseases
- To help in the diagnosis of gallbladder diseases
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment.
- How to prepare for this test?
Before this test, the patient is required to fast for 8-12 hours. No other preparations are required. Wear a short sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.
- What are the symptoms of a liver disease?
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Dark colored urine
- Pale stool color
- Swelling in the legs and ankles
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchy skin.
- What are the symptoms of a bone disease?
- Bone pain
- Deformed or brittle bones
- Increased frequency of fractures
- What are the symptoms of bile duct obstruction?
- Severe abdominal pain
- Pain radiating toward the shoulder
- Pain after having fatty meals
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Lightheadedness
- What are the risk factors for liver disease?
- Alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Exposure to hepatitis virus
- Family history of liver disease
Normal range: 74-390 units per liter
- Interpretation of test results:
Causes of high ALP levels:
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Gallstones
- Liver cancer
- Bone cancer
- Bile duct blockage
- Rickets
- Paget’s disease
- Parathyroid problems.
Causes of low ALP levels:
- Zinc deficiency
- Recent blood transfusion
- Malnutrition.