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Alpliver1cfrserpl

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

A blood test that measures alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme primarily produced by the liver and bones, to help evaluate liver and bone health.

Quick summary

{"Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver and bones","Elevated ALP levels may indicate liver disease, bone disorders, or bile duct obstruction","The test is typically part of a routine liver function panel","Certain medications, pregnancy, and growing bones can affect ALP levels","Your doctor will interpret results based on your overall health and other test results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15348-6
Short code
ALP liver/total ratio
Synonyms
ALP Liver 1 CFr SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST/gel tube) or plain red top tube
Units
not specified
Ref low
44
Ref high
147
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzymatic assay using colorimetric p-nitrophenyl phosphate substrate with automated chemistry analyzer; calculates liver ALP fraction as ratio to total ALP
CPT
84075
SNOMED
59621000
Specimen volume
0.5-1.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Serum stable at room temperature 2-7 days; refrigerated 2-8°C up to 7 days; frozen -20°C or below for extended storage
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) test measures the amount of this enzyme in your blood. Alkaline phosphatase is a protein that helps speed up chemical reactions in your body. It is primarily produced in the liver, but also in your bones, intestines, and kidneys. This test is commonly performed as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or liver function test to assess how well your liver is working.

Why is it important?

The ALP test helps doctors evaluate the health of your liver and biliary system (the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the intestines). It can also help detect bone disorders such as Paget's disease or conditions that affect bone growth. When liver cells are damaged or bile flow is blocked, ALP levels in the blood increase significantly.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected into a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis. You do not need to fast before this test unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. The test is quick and generally causes minimal discomfort.

Understanding your results

Normal ALP levels vary by age, sex, and blood type. Generally, adult levels range from 20 to 140 U/L (units per liter), but reference ranges may differ between laboratories. High ALP levels may indicate liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, bile duct obstruction, or bone conditions like Paget's disease, osteomalacia, or bone cancer. Low ALP levels are less common but can occur in malnutrition, zinc deficiency, or certain genetic disorders.

Reference range

44-147 U/Lnot specified

Specimen: serum

No fasting or special preparation required

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before the ALP test?
Fasting is typically not required for an ALP test. However, follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you. Some labs may recommend fasting if other tests are being done simultaneously.
Can medications affect ALP levels?
Yes, certain medications can affect ALP levels. Birth control pills, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and some blood pressure medications may alter results. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
What does a high ALP mean?
High ALP usually indicates liver or bone problems. Your doctor will review other liver tests to determine if the issue originates in the liver (with elevated ALT/AST) or bones (with normal other liver tests). Further testing may be needed to identify the exact cause.
Is the ALP test dangerous?
The ALP test is very safe. The risks are minimal and include slight bruising, bleeding, or infection at the puncture site. These side effects are rare and usually resolve quickly.
Why would my doctor order an ALP test?
Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine checkup, if you have symptoms of liver disease (jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea), bone disorders (bone pain, fractures), or to monitor known liver or bone conditions. It is also used to monitor the effects of certain medications on the liver.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Alkaline PhosphataseSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Alkaline PhosphataseSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - Alkaline PhosphataseSource

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