What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Alkaline Phosphatase Blood Test, which is used to screen for liver or bone diseases by measuring ALP levels in the blood. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme that is present in various parts of the human body, with each part producing a distinct type of ALP. The highest concentration of ALP can be found in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. Abnormal levels of ALP in the bloodstream may indicate the presence of a variety of health conditions, such as liver disease, bone disorders, and chronic kidney disease. However, since an alkaline phosphatase test alone cannot pinpoint the source of the ALP in the blood, other tests are typically required to reach a diagnosis.
What conditions are associated with abnormal ALP levels?
Elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the body can indicate issues with the liver or bone disorders. However, it is not possible to determine the type of ALP that is high from the test results alone. In such cases, healthcare providers may recommend additional tests, such as an ALP isoenzyme test or liver function tests, to identify the root cause of the problem.
Elevated ALP levels in the liver may be indicative of underlying conditions such as:
- Blockages in bile ducts,
- Cirrhosis,
- Hepatitis
- Mononucleosis, which can cause liver swelling
If liver tests show normal results but alkaline phosphatase levels are high, it may indicate a bone disorder called Paget's disease of bone. This condition can cause bones to become abnormally large and weak, making them prone to fractures.
Moderately high or low levels of ALP in a person's body can indicate various medical conditions. It could be a sign of heart failure, infections, Hodgkin lymphoma, lack of zinc, malnutrition, pernicious anemia, thyroid disease, Wilson disease, or hypophosphatasia. However, higher-than-normal levels of ALP may not necessarily require medical treatment, and a diagnosis is usually made based on symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Low levels of ALP are less common but can indicate the aforementioned conditions.
When should I order an Alkaline Phosphatase Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to liver or bone disease. Common signs or symptoms of liver disease include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Jaundice
- Swelling or pain in the abdomen
- Swelling in the ankles and legs
- Dark-colored urine or light-colored stool
- Itchiness
Symptoms of bone disorders include:
- Pain in the bones
- Inflammation and arthritis in the joints
- Abnormal bone growth
- Broken bones
