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Alpbldcoccnc

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A test measuring the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme in umbilical cord blood to assess fetal health and development.

Quick summary

{"Alkaline phosphatase in cord blood primarily comes from the placenta","This test helps evaluate if the baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrients","Abnormal levels may indicate placental dysfunction or fetal distress","The test is part of routine newborn health assessment","Results are compared against established reference ranges for gestational age"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55971-6
Short code
ALP cord
Synonyms
ALP BldCo-cCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
EDTA (lavender top) tube or serum separator tube (SST)
Units
not specified
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–0 years
Method
Enzymatic colorimetric assay using p-nitrophenyl phosphate (PNPP) substrate
CPT
84075
SNOMED
271544004
Specimen volume
1-2 mL cord blood
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 48 hours; Frozen (-20°C): 7 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Cord Blood Alkaline Phosphatase test measures the amount of alkaline phosphatase enzyme in blood collected from the umbilical cord immediately after birth. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, bones, intestines, and placenta. During pregnancy, the placenta produces a significant amount of alkaline phosphatase, which can be detected in cord blood.

How is the sample collected?

After your baby is born, the healthcare provider will collect blood from the umbilical cord before or after the placenta is delivered. This is a routine procedure that does not cause any pain to the mother or baby, as the blood is collected from the cord that is no longer attached to the newborn.

Why is this test performed?

This test is performed to evaluate fetal well-being during pregnancy and to assess placental function. The level of alkaline phosphatase in cord blood can indicate how well the placenta was functioning in providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing baby. It may also help identify certain conditions that could affect the newborn's health.

What do the results mean?

Alkaline phosphatase levels in cord blood are compared to normal reference ranges that account for gestational age. Higher than normal levels may indicate placental insufficiency, fetal hypoxia (low oxygen), or certain liver or bone conditions. Lower than normal levels are less common but may also require further investigation. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your pregnancy and other clinical findings.

Reference range

44-147 U/Lnot specified

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation required; cord blood collected at delivery

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is the cord blood test safe for my baby?
Yes, this test is completely safe. The blood is collected from the umbilical cord after birth, which is already being clamped and cut as part of the normal delivery process. No blood is taken from your baby, and the collection does not cause any pain or risk to the newborn.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. Since the cord blood is collected after delivery, there are no special preparations needed before your baby's birth.
What happens if my baby's cord blood ALP levels are abnormal?
If the alkaline phosphatase levels are outside the normal range, your healthcare provider will evaluate the results along with other clinical information. Additional testing or monitoring may be recommended to determine the cause. It's important to remember that a single test result is just one piece of information and will be interpreted in the context of your overall pregnancy and delivery experience.
How long does it take to get the results?
The time for results may vary depending on the laboratory. Typically, results are available within a few days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up appointments.
Can this test predict future health problems?
While cord blood ALP levels can indicate certain conditions at birth, they are not predictive of long-term health issues. The test primarily helps healthcare providers assess the baby's condition at delivery and determine if any immediate care or monitoring is needed.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Alkaline PhosphataseSource
  2. 2
    LOINC Code 55971-6 ReferenceSource
  3. 3
    American College of Obstetricians and GynecologistsSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy