Alkaline phosphateBlood Test
The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) blood test measures the levels of ALP enzyme in the blood. ALP is mainly found in the liver, bones, and bile ducts, and its levels may increase in response to various medical conditions.
Some common reasons for a doctor to order an ALP blood test include:
To evaluate liver function: Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.
To diagnose bone disorders: ALP is also produced by bone cells, so an elevated ALP level may be a sign of bone disorders like osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, or bone cancer.
To monitor treatment: If someone is being treated for a liver or bone disorder, their ALP levels may be monitored to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
The ALP blood test is a simple and routine blood test that doesn’t require any special preparation. However, some medications or supplements can affect ALP levels, so it’s important to inform your doctor of any medications you’re taking before the test.
This page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute the provision of medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice regarding any of the tests and conditions referenced above are advised to consult with a licensed clinician. Always seek the advice of your qualified health provider regarding a medical condition and do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of any information on this page. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or go to the nearest urgent care center or hospital.
Book at-home healthcare services with Speedy Sticks.
We offer convenient mobile lab services where our team comes to your location to collect your lab specimens. You can choose to have your samples delivered to any other lab of your choice.