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Osteocalcin (Bone-Alkaline Phosphatase Activity)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the activity of alkaline phosphatase produced by bone cells, helping assess bone formation and remodeling.

Quick summary

["This test helps track bone health and healing over time."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37885-1
Short code
XR tomo Sternum
Synonyms
XR tomo Sternum
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomography
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Osteocalcin Used For?

Osteocalcin is primarily used to monitor bone metabolism and detect changes in bone formation rates. It can be helpful in conditions like osteoporosis, Paget’s disease, or after fractures or surgeries involving bones.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure the alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity associated with osteocalcin.

Who Might Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of bone disease, such as pain, fractures, or abnormal bone scans. It’s also used in research or clinical trials studying bone health.

What Are Common Uses in Clinical Care?

This test is often used alongside other bone markers to evaluate treatment responses in conditions like osteoporosis or metabolic bone diseases. It may also be part of a broader assessment for bone-related disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Bone Turnover Marker

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor request this test?
Your doctor may request this test to assess bone health, monitor treatment progress for bone-related conditions, or investigate unexplained bone pain or fractures.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule.
Is fasting required for this test?
No fasting is required for this blood test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy