ALP
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in the liver, bones, kidneys, and digestive system. This test helps evaluate liver and bone health.
Category: Liver Function
Also known as: alp, alkaline phosphatase, alk phos, alkp, Alkaline phos, Alkaline phosphatase.total, alkalna fosfataza
Reference range: 44–147 U/L (Source: ABIM)
Standard unit: U/L
High values may indicate
High ALP may indicate bile duct obstruction, liver disease, bone disorders such as Paget's disease, or hyperparathyroidism. It is also normally elevated in children and during pregnancy.
Low values may indicate
Low ALP may indicate malnutrition, celiac disease, hypothyroidism, or rare genetic conditions such as hypophosphatasia.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a normal ALP level?
- A typical reference range for ALP is 44–147 U/L (source: ABIM). Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex, so always compare against the range on your own lab report.
- What units is ALP measured in?
- ALP is most commonly reported in U/L. Labs in different countries may use other units — you can convert between them with BloodId's blood test unit converter.
- Where do ALP reference ranges come from?
- BloodId uses ABIM standard reference ranges and educational information from MedlinePlus (see our methodology). Reference ranges still vary by lab, age, and sex, so always compare against your own report.
- Can I track ALP over time?
- Yes. Upload results from any lab and BloodId charts your ALP over time against its reference range, so you can see whether the trend is rising, falling, or stable.