What is Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Blood Test?
Alkaline Phosphatase Test measures the quantity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the blood. ALP is an enzyme present in the body. Most ALP is present in your liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive tract.
ALP levels in the blood can indicate various health problems, including -
- Liver illness
- Bone abnormalities
- Chronic kidney disease
What is the Use of the Alkaline Phosphatase Test?
An alkaline phosphatase test is frequently used to screen for liver or bone problems. The test may also aid in diagnosing or monitoring other medical disorders.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat is the Need for an Alkaline Phosphatase Test?
The doctor may prescribe an alkaline phosphatase test for a routine health checkup. Because various diseases can affect ALP levels, the test is frequently performed in conjunction with other blood tests. Other tests may include a complete metabolic panel (CMP) or liver function tests to determine how well your liver functions.
An alkaline phosphatase test may be recommended if you have signs of liver damage or a bone problem. Among the symptoms of liver disease are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Jaundice
- Abdominal swelling
- Abdomen pain
- Swelling in your ankles and legs
- Dark-colored urine
- Light-colored stool
- Itching
Symptoms of bone disorders include:
- Pain in your bones
- Inflammation and arthritis
- Bones that are unusually shaped and/or too large
- Broken bones
What happens during the Alkaline Phosphatase Test?
A blood test will be done during an alkaline phosphatase test. During the Test, a healthcare provider will use a tiny needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm. After inserting the needle, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial. You might feel a slight sting or discomfort when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes five minutes.
How do you Prepare for the Alkaline PhosphataseTest?
The lab performing the Test determines the preparation for an alkaline phosphatase test. Some laboratories need you to fast (not eat or drink) for 6 to 12 hours before the Test. In addition, the ALP test is generally ordered in conjunction with other blood tests. Before these exams, you should typically fast for several hours. Your provider will notify you if there are any particular instructions to follow.
Is there any Risk in the Alkaline Phosphatase Test?
Having a blood test poses no relative risk or danger. You may experience discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most will disappear soon.
What do the Findings imply?
A high alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level may indicate a liver disease or a bone condition. Different forms of ALP are caused by liver and bone diseases. However, your test results cannot tell you which form of ALP is elevated.
If your ALP levels are high, your physician may conduct further tests to assist in determining what's causing the problem. Among these tests are:
- ALP isoenzyme testing: This Test can determine which portion of your body produces ALP. However, this Test may not be available everywhere.
- Liver function tests: If the findings of these tests are likewise high, your high ALP level is most likely the outcome of liver disease.
High alkaline phosphatase levels in your liver might indicate:
If alkaline phosphatase levels are high and liver tests return average, the problem might be a bone illness such as Paget's disease of bone. This illness causes your bones to become abnormally big and weak, making them more prone to breaking.
ALP levels that are somewhat elevated may indicate various diseases, including Hodgkin lymphoma, heart problems, or certain infections.
What is Essential information about the Alkaline Phosphatase Test?
ALP levels can be affected by a variety of factors. ALP levels might rise above ordinary during pregnancy. Children and teenagers may have elevated ALP levels when the bones develop. Birth control drugs and some medications can reduce ALP levels, while other medicines might raise them. A fatty meal before an alkaline phosphatase test may also induce a slight rise in ALP.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
High alkaline phosphatase (ALP) values may suggest that your liver is damaged or that you have a bone condition. ALP produced by liver injury differs from ALP produced by bone problems.
The normal range of Alkaline Phosphatase is 44 to 147 (IU/L) or 0.73 to 2.45 microkatal per liter (µkat/L).
Alkaline Phosphatase Test usually takes around five to ten minutes.
Higher ALP levels may indicate liver injury or disease, such as a blocked bile duct or certain bone disorders.
Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as chia seeds, flax seeds, Brussels sprouts, algal oil, and walnuts, reduce intestinal alkaline phosphatase levels.
The following symptoms require an Alkaline Phosphatase Test:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Painful or swollen abdomen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tiredness or weakness
- Sudden weight loss
- Dark urine
You may be asked to fast for 10 to 12 hours before the test.
The cost of the Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) test is approximately Rs. 150 to Rs. 200; however, it may vary due to factors like the city, hospital, etc.
If you are looking for the Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test in Hyderabad, visit Medicover Hospitals, which offers the best diagnostic services.
Get treated for high Alkaline Phosphatase levels at Medicover Hospitals. Its team consists of top doctors who treat this condition.
