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Alpdialfldccnc

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

A blood test that measures alkaline phosphatase enzyme levels to evaluate liver function and bone health in dialysis patients.

Quick summary

{"ALP is an enzyme found in liver, bones, and intestines","High levels may indicate bone disease or liver problems in dialysis patients","Regular monitoring helps prevent complications like bone disease","The test is performed on a blood sample","Results help your healthcare team adjust your treatment plan"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59164-4
Short code
ALP dialysis fluid
Synonyms
ALP Dial fld-cCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
not specified
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Enzymatic spectrophotometric assay using para-nitrophenylphosphate (pNPP) substrate
CPT
84060
SNOMED
272512003
Specimen volume
2-5 mL of serum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) test measures the amount of this enzyme in your blood. Alkaline phosphatase is found in various tissues throughout your body, especially in the liver, bones, and intestines. For patients on dialysis, this test is particularly important because it helps doctors monitor both liver function and bone health, which are commonly affected by kidney disease.

Why do I need this test?

If you are receiving dialysis treatment, your doctor will regularly order this test to: (1) Monitor for bone disease (renal osteodystrophy), which is common in patients with kidney failure; (2) Check your liver function, as some medications and kidney disease can affect the liver; (3) Evaluate if your parathyroid gland is overactive, which can affect bone health; (4) Help determine if your dialysis treatment is working effectively.

How is the test done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The test is usually done as part of your routine blood work before or after your dialysis session. You do not need to fast before this test unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.

What do the results mean?

ALP levels that are too high may indicate: bone disorders such as Paget's disease or osteomalacia; liver problems including hepatitis or bile duct obstruction; hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid gland); or certain medications affecting your bones or liver. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your overall health, other test results, and your specific condition. Do not worry if your results are slightly different from the normal range – your healthcare team will explain what this means for you.

Reference range

No established reference rangenot specified

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required; specimen is dialysis fluid

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

How often should I have this test?
For most dialysis patients, alkaline phosphatase is typically tested every 1-3 months as part of regular blood work. Your doctor may order it more frequently if you have abnormal results or specific health concerns.
Do I need to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, follow any specific instructions your doctor gives you.
What happens if my ALP is high?
A high ALP result does not necessarily mean you have a serious problem. Your doctor will consider your other test results, symptoms, and overall health to determine the cause. Treatment may involve adjusting your medications, dietary changes, or additional tests.
Can dialysis affect ALP levels?
Dialysis itself does not directly affect ALP levels significantly. However, the treatment helps remove waste products that can contribute to bone and liver complications, which in turn helps manage ALP levels over time.
Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. This is typically well-tolerated and the procedure only takes a few minutes.
  1. 1
    National Kidney Foundation - Lab Tests for Kidney DiseaseSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus - Alkaline PhosphataseSource
  3. 3
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Kidney DiseaseSource

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