Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test - Price, Preparation, Range

Table of Content

Introduction to ALP Test

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found throughout the body in various tissues. It plays a role in processes like bone mineralization and liver function. This enzyme is a type of protein in a cell that acts as a catalyst that helps in various body functions. The ALP test measures the ALP level in the blood and assesses liver and bone health. The liver, kidneys, intestines, and bones release ALP. The high levels of ALP in the blood may indicate health issues like liver disease, bone diseases, and chronic kidney diseases. However, an alkaline phosphatase test alone can't identify the source of ALP in blood, so this is used with other diagnosis tests. 

Your healthcare provider may recommend the test based on symptoms like nausea and vomiting, fatigue, poor appetite and weakness, and Jaundice. Get the alk phos blood test from Redcliffe Labs professionals trusted by millions of customers. The alkaline phosphatase blood test is available at most affordable prices. You need to book your test, and the phlebotomist will come to your place to collect the sample. So what are you still waiting for? Book your alk phosphatase test today!

Test details in brief

Purpose of the ALP test

The Alkaline Phosphatase test is a blood test used to measure the ALP level in blood. The test helps assess various health issues, and the primary purposes of the ALP test include the following:

• Liver Function Assessment-  The test helps to assess liver functioning, and conditions such as Hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver tumors can cause an increase in ALP levels.
• Bone Health Evaluation- Alkaline phosphatase is also present in bones, and its levels may be elevated in conditions affecting the bones, such as Paget's disease, bone cancer, or fractures. Growing children and adults might also have higher ALP levels due to bone growth.
• Monitoring Treatment- The alk phosphatase test is often used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for liver or bone disorders. Changes in ALP levels over time can provide insights into the progression or improvement of a medical condition.
• Screening for Bone Disorders- The ALP test helps to screen and diagnose bone disorders such as Paget's disease.
• Screening- The test screens various symptoms. The test is used with other tests like liver panel and metabolic panel, which are essential to diagnose liver conditions. The test is also used as a routine health checkup to find the range of health issues.
• Diagnosis- The alkaline phosphatase blood test diagnoses liver diseases based on symptoms like nausea and vomiting, jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, or weight loss. ALP level measurements are a part of the liver panel, which helps identify the cause of general symptoms.

Preparation for the ALP Test

The ALP test does not require any specialty before the test. However, you need to follow some guidelines recommended by your healthcare provider:

• The ALP test does not require fasting. You can usually eat and drink before the test.
• Always discuss your health condition with your doctor before the test. If you are taking any medications, always discuss them with your Doctor, as some medicines might interfere with the results reports.
• Don't resist stress; the test will take 3-5 minutes. Be calm before the test, as stress or anxiety may also impact the ALP level in the blood. 

The procedure of the test

The ALP test is a blood test. During the process, the phlebotomist will collect the blood sample from the vein of your arm. The phlebotomist will tie a band on the arm of your hand. The technician will clean the arm area with an antiseptic solution and insert a needle to withdraw the blood sample. You might feel little pain or discomfort during the process, but this is normal. The blood drawing process is simple and takes at most 5 minutes. A bandage will be applied to the puncture site to stop the blood flow. The blood sample will then be sent to the laboratory for analysis.

What are the common symptoms related to abnormal ALP Levels?

Your healthcare provider may recommend the alkaline phosphatase blood test based on the symptoms and routine health checkup. Many conditions indicate abnormal ALP levels. Symptoms may include-

• Nausea and vomiting
• Poor appetite
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Jaundice 
• Stomach or abdominal pain
• Swelling in belly
• Inflammation or arthritis
• Swelling in ankles and legs
• Dark-colored urine 
• Bone deformities
• Frequent itching

Why do I take an alkaline Phosphatase blood test?

The alkphos blood test helps assess liver, bone, kidney, and intestine issues. Here are common reasons why your healthcare provider might recommend an ALP blood test:

• The test helps to assess liver functioning. 
• To evaluate bone health.
• To monitor the effectiveness of treatment for liver or bone disorder
• You must take the ALP test if you are at risk or experiencing symptoms related to bone health.
• Your healthcare provider may recommend the ALP test as part of routine blood tests during regular checkups. 

Who is at risk of a high ALP test?

High alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels indicate various conditions affecting the liver, bones, or other tissues. Certain factors may increase the risk of abnormal ALP levels. Here are some people who are at risk:

• Aged people
• People with liver conditions such as Hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver tumors.
• People with malnutrition or malabsorption disorders 
• People with bone disorders such as Paget's disease, bone cancer, or fractures.
• People are taking certain medications.
• People who have certain intestines, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease

What do the ALP test reports indicate?

After getting testing, the reports will be provided within 12 hours. Discuss your reports with healthcare providers. The reports will indicate the blood's high, low, and normal ALP levels. Here are the test report indications: 

• High ALP level- A low alkaline phosphatase level in the blood indicates liver problems or bone disorders. This might indicate cirrhosis, hepatitis mononucleosis, cholestasis of pregnancy, Hepatitis, and Biliary atresia, which can cause swelling in the liver. The high level of ALP indicates bone disorders like Bone metastasis and Paget's disease of bone, in which the bone weakens and makes it fragile. If the ALP levels are slightly high, this might indicate lymphoma, Hyperparathyroidism, osteomalacia, heart failure, or certain infections.
• Low levels of ALP- Less than normal levels of ALP might be a sign of malnutrition, anemia, thyroid disease, deficiency of zinc and magnesium, or hypophosphatasia (HPP), a rare genetic disorder that affects bones. 

A high or abnormal level of ALP does not always mean having a medical condition that needs treatment. Therefore, always consult your reports with your doctors; based on your alk phos blood test reports, symptoms, and medical history, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests to identify the specific condition.

What is ALP's normal range in blood?

The ALP test measures the ALP level in the blood. The ALP level may vary with age and sex. The ALP levels are measured in international units per liter (IU/L). The normal level of ALP is 20 to 140 IU/L, but it may vary from lab to lab. ALP levels are normally high during puberty as the body grows and develops. Furthermore, between 15 and 50, the ALP levels are higher in males than females. ALP level is also high in pregnant women. 

Is there any risk of an ALP blood test?

There is no risk associated with ALP blood tests. During the blood drawing process, there is a risk of -

• A little pain or discomfort 
• Bruising around the puncture site 
• Infection
• Hematoma
• Excessive bleeding

ALP Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The alkaline phosphatase test price is INR 149 at Redcliffe Labs. You can book your test with us to experience the best diagnostic experience at affordable prices. You can book a test over a call or visit the website. With the express slots facility, you will be tested within 45 minutes. The phlebotomist will come to your place to collect the sample. Trained and experienced lab experts will help to smooth the testing process and ensure accurate results. Our labs follow strict privacy and confidentiality protocols to protect your personal health information. You can also avail yourself of the best offers and discounts on diagnostic tests. Save time and effort, and book your ALK Phos blood test today.

Take ALP Blood Test to Maintain Liver and Bone Health 

If you are experiencing symptoms of liver damage, such as jaundice, bone disorders, or joint pain, consult with your healthcare provider and take an ALP test. If your test reports are positive, don't worry; the condition can be cured with proper treatment and medications. Don't delay getting an alkaline phosphatase blood test, as it might increase the risk of health complications and may worsen your condition. By taking routine ALP tests, you can prevent inevitable health issues. Embracing this proactive approach empowers people to prioritize their health. Consult healthcare professionals for proper treatment strategies for maintaining liver and bone health.