ALP - blood test
What is ALP Blood Test
The ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) blood test is used to measure the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme in the blood. The ALT (Alanine Transaminase) test also checks the level of this enzyme, but they measure different activities of the enzyme. ALT mainly measures the liver activity of the enzyme, while ALP measures the activity of the enzyme in bones, intestines, and the placenta.
Preparation for ALP Blood Test
No special preparation is necessary for the ALP test. Before the test, you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant, taking any medications, or have any diseases or allergies.
How is ALP Blood Test Performed
The ALP test is usually done as part of a routine lab workup. A phlebotomist will draw a sample of your blood and send it to a lab for testing. The results of the test will usually be available in a few days.
What do the Results Mean?
The results of the ALP test will be expressed as an international normalized ratio (INR). The normal range for ALP is 45-115 U/L. Higher than normal levels may indicate liver disease, bone disease, or pancreatic disease. Lower than normal levels may indicate malnutrition, infection, or anemia.
Types of ALP Blood Test
Total ALP: Total ALP measures all the alkaline phosphatase activity in the blood. This includes the ALP activity in the liver, bone, intestines, and placenta.
Bone-Specific ALP: Bone-specific ALP measures the alkaline phosphatase activity that is specific to the bone.
Intestinal ALP: Intestinal ALP measures the alkaline phosphatase activity that is specific to the intestines.
Placental ALP: Placental ALP measures the alkaline phosphatase activity that is specific to the placenta.
Risks of ALP Blood Test
The ALP blood test is a very safe test. There is no risk of infection or reaction. The only risk is minor bruising at the site of the blood draw.
Why is ALP Blood Test done?
The ALP blood test is done to measure the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme in the blood. Higher than normal levels may indicate liver disease, bone disease, or pancreatic disease. Lower than normal levels may indicate malnutrition, infection, or anemia.
When is ALP Blood Test done?
The ALP blood test is usually done as part of a routine lab workup. It may also be done if a patient is suspected of having a disease or medical condition that affects their alkaline phosphatase levels, such as liver or bone diseases.
