Examinations
Examinations
ALP is a vital enzyme located in the cellular membrane, and its levels can increase or decrease due to various factors. It is a natural protein found in the tissues of the body. In healthy and mature individuals, about half of ALP is produced in the liver, and the other half in the bones. ALP plays a role in breaking down proteins in the body and is typically secreted by the liver, bones, intestines, and kidneys. In pregnant women, ALP is also secreted by the placenta.
- The test requires a blood sample taken from a vein.
- The analysis should be conducted after 8–14 hours of fasting overnight.
- Investigation of liver pathologies
- Bone diseases
- Screening for bile duct obstruction
What Does a High ALP Level Mean?
Since ALP is secreted by the bones, intestines, and placenta in pregnant women, elevated ALP levels indicate a potential issue in one of these organs.
Causes:
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Acute cardiovascular disease
- Intestinal inflammation
- Severe infections
- Bone cancer
- Rickets
- Bone metastases
- Increased activity of bone osteoclasts during bone growth
- Pregnancy
- Cholestasis, reduced or absent bile secretion, or bile duct obstruction
- Hepatitis
- Untreated diabetes
- Excessive use of antibiotics, anti-epileptic drugs, antidepressants, or anti-inflammatory drugs
- Hyperthyroidism and overactivity of the parathyroid glands
- Digestive system inflammation
What Does a Low ALP Level Mean?
Low ALP levels, unlike high levels, are generally not indicative of significant issues. An inadequate diet or consuming foods with low nutritional value can lead to deficiencies in B6, folic acid, vitamin C, phosphorus, and zinc, causing low ALP. This is generally not harmful.
Causes:
- Anemia
- Thyroid hormone deficiency
- Low phosphate levels
- Deficiency in B12, zinc, or magnesium
- Eating disorders
- Celiac disease
- Excessive intake of vitamins D and B
- Estrogen therapy