ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE

Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found throughout your body but mainly concentrated in your liver and bones. It plays a major role in bone mineralization process and liver functioning. The ALP test is done to measure a person’s level of this enzyme in their blood which can be used for diagnosing or monitoring different conditions. 

This test relies on a simple blood draw, normally from one’s arm. Then, the blood sample is sent to a laboratory where it will be tested for its level of ALP, measured as units per litre (U/L). 

The test of ALP measures the blood level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme, which can indicate several conditions including liver and bone disease. High levels of ALP in the blood may suggest that there is: 

1. Injury or illness to liver 

2. Developments or illnesses in bones 

3. Specific disorders related to kidneys 

The ALP test is often conducted: 

1. For diagnosis and monitoring of liver disease such as Hepatitis or Cirrhosis. 

2. For diagnosing and monitoring bone disorders, for example, osteoporosis or Paget’s diseases. 

3. As part of the general health check-up also known as screening among medical practitioners. 

4. To see if treatment for liver or bone problems is working. 

While there are minimal risks associated with ALP testing some patients may experience; 

1. Mild pain at the site where blood was drawn 

2. Bleeding or bruising at the site where blood was taken 

Test limitations include: 

Not all elevated levels of ALP mean some diseases because level have natural variations 

1. Certain medications such as antacids or aspirin can disturb ALP levels. 

2. Other tests could be required to confirm diagnosis and rule out underlying conditions.  

These include: 

1. Total ALP level: The total amount of alkaline phosphatase enzyme present in blood 

2. Bone-specific ALP level: The amount of alkaline phosphatase enzyme that relates to bone activity present in blood. 

3. Liver-specific ALP level: The amount of alkaline phosphatase enzyme that relates to liver activity present in blood. 

Higher than normal levels of ALP are looked for by medical professionals, which may mean a patient has a disease affecting their liver or bones. Adjustments might have to be made based on factors like age, underlying conditions. 

1. Patients with jaundice or abdominal pain, which are symptoms of liver disease 

2. Patients with osteoporosis or bone pain, which are symptoms of bone disease 

3. Patients that have previously had liver or bone ailments 

4. Patients who are taking drugs that may impact ALP levels. 

This test can be used to: 

1. Diagnose and monitor liver disease. 

2. Diagnose and treat bone disorders. 

3. Monitor treatment of liver or bone diseases. 

4. Identify other underlying conditions responsible for signs. 

These include but not limited to: 

1. Liver disease: cirrhosis, hepatitis, hepatoma 

2. Bone disorders: osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, osteosarcoma 

3. Kidney disorders: renal stones, kidney failure 

1. Fast for 8–12 hours before an ALP test, avoiding food, drinks (except water), and certain medications if advised. 

2. Wear comfortable clothing, stay hydrated, and follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure accurate results. 

Prerequisites:  

1. Fasting: Typically, it is 8 -12 hours before the test will be done 

2. Avoid certain medications: They include antacids, aspirin and some specific antibiotics. 

Eligibility: There is no age restriction; thus, anyone can take up the opportunity to get tested regardless of their age limits such as children and adults alike. 

Procedure for Taking the test: 

1. A blood sample will be taken by a healthcare professional from a vein in the arm. 

2. The sample of blood will be referred to the laboratory for analysis. 

Caution Before the Test: 

1. Patients should tell their healthcare professional about any medication they are taking 

2. Patients should inform their healthcare professional of any underlying conditions