Alkaline Phosphatase, Serum
Use
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in serum is used to diagnose and monitor treatment of liver, bone, intestinal, and parathyroid diseases. It is important in detecting conditions such as cholestasis, jaundice, Paget disease, hyperparathyroidism, rickets, osteomalacia, fractures, and malignant tumors. Serum ALP is elevated with increased osteoblast activity due to accelerated bone growth, especially in children and teenagers.
Special Instructions
Patient's age and sex are required. Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. If using red-top tubes, they should also be centrifuged and aliquoted within the same time frame. If not ordering electronically, complete the Kidney Transplant Test Request form with the specimen.
Limitations
ALP values need to be interpreted with caution in pediatrics, as reference values differ for children and adolescents. Improper specimen collection, handling, or inappropriate test selection may lead to diagnostic confusion. Furthermore, interfering substances must be considered, as they might affect the accuracy of results.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6768-6
- 6768-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel tubes should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top tubes should also be centrifuged and aliquoted within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 60 days |