What does the Alkaline Phosphatase Test (Alk P'tase) assess?

The Alkaline Phosphatase Test is primarily used to assess liver function and to evaluate bone disorders. It measures the level of alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, with significant concentrations in the liver, bile ducts, and bone. When there is damage to the liver or bile ducts, or when there are bone diseases such as Paget's disease or certain cancers, alkaline phosphatase levels can increase.

In the context of liver diseases, elevated alkaline phosphatase levels may indicate cholestasis, a condition where bile cannot flow from the liver to the duodenum. For bone disorders, increased alkaline phosphatase can signal increased bone turnover or bone pathology, reflecting conditions like osteomalacia or metastasis.

The focus on both liver and bone assessments distinguishes this test from others. For instance, while heart function, vitamin D levels, and diabetes screening involve different sets of tests and biochemical markers, the Alkaline Phosphatase Test is explicitly tailored to identify issues concerning liver health and bone integrity.