Alkaline Phosphatase Blood Test
The alkaline phosphatase blood test measures the level of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase in the blood.
Description
An alkaline phosphatase (ALP) blood test assesses the level of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase in a blood sample. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found in the bloodstream. This enzyme helps break down proteins in your body and exists in different forms depending on where it originates. Your liver is the primary source of alkaline phosphatase. It is also produced in the intestines, bones, kidneys, and pancreas.
What is the Alkaline Phosphatase blood test used for?
The alkaline phosphatase test (ALP test) can help to determine the following:
- cirrhosis
- blockage of bile ducts
- hepatitis
- cholecystitis
An alkaline phosphatase blood test can help diagnose the following bone problems:
- rickets
- osteomalacia
- Paget’s disease
This test can also be useful in answering for the presence of cancer tumors, unusual bone growth, or deficiency of vitamin D.
Higher blood levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) may also indicate problems with your liver or gallbladder. These problems may include:
- gallstones
- blockage of bile ducts
- liver cancer
- cirrhosis
- hepatitis
High Alkaline Phosphatase Levels (alk phos high)
High ALP levels can indicate overactive parathyroid gland, bone cancer, rickets, or Paget’s disease.
Low Alkaline Phosphatase Levels (alk phos low)
A low level of alkaline phosphatase (low phos alk) in your bloodstream is rare but may indicate malnutrition, which can be caused by a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals or celiac disease.
Order an alkaline phosphatase Test (ALP Test) without insurance or a doctor’s note required.
