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Alpregancfrserpl

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

A blood test that measures the level of alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme found in the liver, bones, and other tissues.

Quick summary

{"ALP is an enzyme mainly produced in the liver and bones","High ALP levels may indicate liver problems, bone disorders, or gallbladder issues","This test is commonly part of routine blood work and liver function panels","Normal levels vary by age, gender, and blood type"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15017-7
Short code
ALP
Synonyms
ALP Regan CFr SerPl
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
SST (Serum Separator Tube) gold top or plain red top tube
Units
not specified
Ref low
40
Ref high
129
Critical range
15 not specified – 500 not specified
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Spectrophotometric colorimetric assay using p-nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP) substrate with alkaline buffer
CPT
84075
SNOMED
271465006
Specimen volume
1-2 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature (20-25°C): 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 3 months; Protect from light
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is the Alkaline Phosphatase 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 found in many tissues, with the highest concentrations in the liver, bones, kidneys, and intestines.

Why Do I Need This Test?

Your doctor may order an ALP test as part of a routine health checkup or if you have symptoms of liver or bone problems. It is often included in a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or liver function tests. The test helps doctors evaluate the health of your liver and bones, and can also help detect gallbladder problems.

How is the Test Done?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test, as instructed by your doctor. Some medications can affect ALP levels, so be sure to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Understanding Your Results

Normal ALP levels vary depending on age, gender, and blood type. Generally, the normal range for adults is about 20 to 140 IU/L (international units per liter), but this can vary by laboratory. Higher than normal ALP levels may indicate liver disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallbladder obstruction, bone disorders such as Paget's disease, or certain cancers. Lower than normal ALP levels are less common and may indicate malnutrition, zinc deficiency, or certain genetic disorders.

What Do I Need to Know Before the Test?

Follow your doctor's instructions about fasting before the test. Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you are pregnant, let your doctor know, as ALP levels can be naturally higher during pregnancy. Recent bone fractures or healing wounds can also affect ALP levels.

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 findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before the ALP test?
You may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Follow your doctor's specific instructions. Only water is usually allowed during the fasting period.
What does a high ALP level mean?
High ALP can indicate liver problems (like hepatitis or cirrhosis), bone disorders (like Paget's disease), gallbladder issues, or other conditions. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
What does a low ALP level mean?
Low ALP is less common and may be caused by malnutrition, zinc or magnesium deficiency, hypothyroidism, or certain rare genetic disorders. Your doctor will evaluate this finding along with other test results.
Can pregnancy affect ALP levels?
Yes, ALP levels are normally higher during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to the placenta producing ALP. This is usually not a cause for concern.
Are there any risks from the blood test?
The risks are minimal and include slight pain, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site. Some people may feel dizzy or faint during or after the blood draw.
  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