Liver
ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase)
Liver
Elevated in liver and bone disease. Used alongside GGT to assess bile duct function.
VAT-exempt medical service
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is everywhere. Liver, kidneys, digestive system, bones -- it's got range. Its job involves breaking down proteins, and clinically it's a useful clue for spotting liver, gallbladder, and bone problems. When the liver is hurt or bile flow gets blocked, ALP floods into your bloodstream. The tricky part? Figuring out where it's coming from.
ALP is your early radar for liver and bone issues, especially if alcohol, weight, or medications are in the mix. It's particularly good at catching bile duct obstructions and flagging bone conditions. Follow it over time and you can literally see how your liver responds to the changes you're making. That's a pretty powerful feedback loop.
What a high value can mean
High ALP typically means liver damage or increased bone cell activity. When other liver markers (bilirubin, AST, GGT, ALT) are also up, the liver is the likely suspect. If GGT is normal but calcium or phosphorus markers look off, think bone. Pregnancy, healing fractures, and certain medications can also give a moderate bump. Watch for yellowing skin, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, unexplained weight loss, and bone pain or tenderness.
What a low value can mean
Low ALP can signal zinc deficiency, malnutrition, low magnesium, low protein, or the aftermath of blood transfusions or heart bypass surgery. Oral contraceptives can lower it too. Kids and teens naturally run higher because their bones are still growing. Symptoms might include persistent fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, or growth issues in children.
Best to skip fatty foods and alcohol the day before. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Check GGT. If it's also elevated, the source is likely the liver. If GGT is normal but calcium or phosphorus markers look off, a bone condition is more probable.
Not at all. Pregnancy, healing fractures, and growing kids all cause elevated ALP. Context matters -- one number never tells the whole story.
Yes. Some antibiotics and anticonvulsants can raise ALP. Always tell your healthcare provider what you're taking.