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Alpliver2serplccnc

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

A blood test that measures the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme in your blood to help evaluate liver and bone health.

Quick summary

{"Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme mainly produced by the liver and bones","Elevated levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or bone disorders","The test requires a simple blood draw, typically after fasting","Results are interpreted by comparing your level to a normal range","Certain medications, pregnancy, or growing bones in children can affect results"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13875-0
Short code
ALP
Synonyms
ALP Liver 2 SerPl-cCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST/gold top) or plain red top tube
Units
not specified
Ref low
40
Ref high
129
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzymatic spectrophotometric assay using p-nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP) substrate
CPT
84075
SNOMED
59621000
Specimen volume
0.5-1.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 2-3 days, Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days, Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
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. While ALP is found throughout the body, the liver is a major source of this enzyme. The liver-specific ALP test helps healthcare providers assess how well your liver is functioning and check for conditions affecting the liver or bile ducts.

Why is this test performed?

Your doctor may order an ALP test as part of a routine metabolic panel or if you're experiencing symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), abdominal pain, nausea, or unexplained fatigue. The test helps diagnose and monitor conditions including hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallbladder disease, bone disorders, and certain cancers.

How to prepare for the test

You may need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test, as food can affect ALP levels. Inform your doctor about all medications you're taking, as some drugs can influence test results. Avoid alcohol before the test as it can affect liver enzyme levels.

What happens during the test

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The procedure takes only a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Understanding your results

Normal ALP levels vary by age, sex, and blood type. Generally, adult normal ranges are between 20-140 U/L (units per liter), but this can vary by laboratory. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your individual health profile and may order additional tests if needed.

Reference range

40-129 U/Lnot specified

Specimen: serum

No fasting or special preparation required

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Does a high ALP always mean liver disease?
No, elevated ALP can also come from bones, especially in children and adolescents who are still growing, or from intestinal sources. Your doctor will consider which isoenzyme (form of the enzyme) is elevated by ordering additional tests or examining other liver markers to determine the source.
Can I eat before the ALP test?
Follow your doctor's instructions. Some labs require fasting while others do not. If fasting is required, only water is typically allowed. Eating fatty foods before the test may temporarily increase ALP levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1-2 days, though this varies by laboratory. Your doctor's office will contact you with results or schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss them.
Are there any risks from the blood test?
The risks are minimal and include slight bruising, bleeding, or infection at the puncture site. Some people may feel lightheaded during or after the blood draw. These effects are usually temporary and resolve quickly.
What medications can affect ALP levels?
Certain medications can alter ALP levels, including some antibiotics, birth control pills, anti-seizure medications, and drugs for diabetes or high blood pressure. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you're taking.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Alkaline PhosphataseSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Liver Function TestsSource
  3. 3
    American Liver FoundationSource

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