In short
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver, bile ducts and bones.
- The ALP level can provide information about the health of the liver, bile ducts and bone metabolism.
- An elevated alkaline phosphatase level can have various causes, such as a condition affecting the liver, bile ducts or bones.
- ALP levels may also be temporarily elevated during growth, pregnancy or recovery from a bone fracture.
- An abnormal ALP level usually does not cause symptoms directly and is often discovered during a blood test.
- An ALP test is usually combined with other liver markers, such as ALT, AST, gamma-GT and bilirubin, to help determine the cause of an abnormal result.
- Would you like more insight into the health of your liver or bones? A liver function blood test can provide valuable information.
What is alkaline phosphatase and what does this level say about your liver?
Alkaline phosphatase (abbreviated as ALP) is an enzyme, a type of protein, that is mainly found in the liver, bones and bile ducts. The ALP level in your blood provides information about how well your liver and bile ducts are functioning. A normal ALP level usually indicates that your liver and bile ducts are healthy.
What does a high or low alkaline phosphatase level mean?
A high ALP level may indicate a problem with your liver, bile ducts or bones. For example, it may indicate a blockage of the bile ducts, inflammation of the liver or bone problems. A low ALP level is less common but may sometimes indicate a deficiency of certain nutrients or a rare condition.
What symptoms can indicate an abnormal alkaline phosphatase level?
If your ALP level is abnormal, you may experience symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), itching, abdominal pain or bone pain. However, sometimes there are no symptoms at all and an abnormal level is discovered by chance during a blood test.
What can cause alkaline phosphatase levels to increase or decrease?
An elevated ALP level can be caused by liver disease, bile duct problems, bone disease, pregnancy or growth in children. A low level can be caused by a zinc or magnesium deficiency or certain inherited conditions.
What conditions can cause an abnormal alkaline phosphatase level?
Conditions that can cause an abnormal ALP level include bile duct obstruction, hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), bone diseases such as Paget’s disease, bone fractures, certain types of cancer and rare metabolic disorders.
When should you consider having your alkaline phosphatase tested?
It may be advisable to have your ALP tested if you have symptoms that could indicate liver, bile duct or bone problems. This test is also often performed as part of a general blood test, for example in cases of unexplained fatigue or when monitoring a known condition.
How is alkaline phosphatase measured and how should you interpret the result?
ALP is measured using a finger-prick blood test. The result is compared with the normal reference values for your age and sex. If your level is abnormal, your doctor can discuss what this may mean and whether further investigation is necessary.
How can an abnormal alkaline phosphatase level be improved?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If a liver or bile duct problem is responsible, your doctor will determine the appropriate treatment. If a nutrient deficiency is the cause, dietary changes or supplements may help. Sometimes no treatment is necessary, for example when the level is temporarily elevated due to growth in children or pregnancy. It is important to always discuss the most appropriate approach with your doctor.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.
