Alkaline Phosphatase Bone Specific

Bone alkaline phosphatase test is a measurement of skeletal alkaline phosphatase. This test helps in the diagnosis of bone-related problems like osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteomalacia, osteolytic lesions secondary to metastasis, Paget’s disease, etc.

Osteoporosis:

This is a type of bone disease where the bones become weak and brittle. This condition is due to an imbalance between the breakdown and rebuilding of bone tissues. This is mostly disturbed due to hormonal changes or dietary changes. During these changes, the bone may lose some of the minerals that contribute to its density and strength.

Osteopenia:

This is a condition in which the bone density is decreased.

Osteomalacia:

Osteomalacia is caused due to deficiency of vitamin D and calcium which results in softening of bones.

Osteolytic lesions:

Osteolytic lesions are the symptoms of specific diseases like breast cancer, multiple myelomas, etc. Osteolytic lesions are the softened section of the bones.

Paget’s Disease: Paget’s Disease is a bone disorder in which old bone tissues are gradually replaced by new bone tissues. This may lead to fragile bones.

What is Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)?

Alkaline Phosphatase is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body. It is found in many variations called isoenzymes. Each isoenzyme of ALP is different, depending on where in your body it’s made. The highest concentrations of alkaline phosphatase are found in bone and liver. ALP-2 isoenzyme is made by bones. The levels of this enzyme increase when your bones are growing or bone cells are active.

Why this test is performed?

This test may be recommended to you to check your bone health. This test is also recommended if you experience certain symptoms like chronic bone pain, joint pain, deformed bones, bones that are brittle or break easily. If you had a fracture recently this test may be performed to assess the strength of your bones. This test is also recommended to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment given for any of your bone diseases.

Precautions:

Ceratin drugs like aspirin, antibiotics, estrogen, and birth control pills may affect the levels of alkaline phosphatase. Hence inform your doctor or technician about all your current medications and medical conditions prior to the test.

The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.

If your ALP levels are higher than the reference range, it may indicate bone diseases such as osteomalacia, osteoporosis, osteoblastic bone tumors, Paget's disease. Raised levels of ALP also indicate hyperparathyroidism or leukemia. The test results can be interpreted only by your doctor. Hence consult your doctor soon after receiving your lab reports for further diagnosis or medical intervention.