Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis
Also known as: Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis, Serum
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test Overview
Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, bone, and intestines. The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis - Serum test is a diagnostic procedure used to separate and measure the various isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase in a patient's blood serum. Measuring its isoenzymes can help pinpoint the source of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels in the blood.
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test is a diagnostic tool that measures the different forms (isoenzymes) of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase (ALP) present in the blood. ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the liver, bones, kidneys, and intestines. Each tissue produces a slightly different version of ALP, known as isoenzymes.
This test helps identify which specific isoenzyme is elevated, allowing clinicians to determine which tissue or organ is likely affected. It is essential for differential diagnosis, especially when trying to determine if the source of elevation is hepatic (from the liver) or osseous (from the bones).
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test can also be used to screen for, monitor, or help diagnose liver and biliary diseases, bone disorders, and other health conditions such as hepatitis, hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and certain types of cancer.
Reasons for Undergoing the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test is typically ordered when an individual has an elevated total alkaline phosphatase level to determine the source of the elevation. Reasons for undergoing this test include:
- Differentiating between liver and bone diseases
- Screening for, monitoring, or helping diagnose liver and biliary diseases
- Evaluating bone disorders such as osteomalacia, Paget's disease, or healing fractures
- Investigating other health conditions such as hepatitis, hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and certain types of cancer
List of Parameters Considered During the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test measures the different isoenzymes of ALP present in blood. The key parameters and their indications are:
- Liver Isoenzyme: Elevated levels may indicate liver disease, biliary obstruction, or hepatitis.
- Bone Isoenzyme: Elevated levels may suggest bone disorders such as osteomalacia, Paget's disease, or healing fractures.
- Intestinal Isoenzyme: Elevated levels may be seen after a fatty meal, especially in individuals with blood type O or B who are secretors.
- Placental Isoenzyme: Typically seen in pregnant women.
- Other Isoenzymes: Such as those from the kidneys or other tissues, though these are less common.
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test Preparation
Preparing for Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test involves the following steps:
- Specimen Collection: A blood sample is drawn, usually from a vein in the elbow or back of the hand. Serum is the preferred specimen, though lithium heparin plasma may also be used if necessary. Anticoagulants containing oxalate, citrate, or EDTA should be avoided as they inhibit ALP activity.
- Patient Preparation: Overnight fasting is preferred, especially since eating a fatty meal can elevate ALP levels in individuals with certain blood types (O or B) who are secretors.
- Interfering Substances: Patients should be aware that high concentrations of phosphate, oxalate, citrate, and cyanide can inhibit ALP activity. Excess glycine may also inhibit ALP activity by complexing Mg2+.
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test Results & Interpretation
The results of the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test should be interpreted as follows:
- Elevated Levels:
- Liver Disease: Elevated liver isoenzymes may indicate conditions like hepatitis, biliary obstruction, or liver cancer.
- Bone Disorders: Elevated bone isoenzymes may suggest conditions such as osteomalacia, Paget's disease, or healing fractures.
- Other Conditions: Elevated levels can also be seen in conditions like hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism, certain cancers, and other diseases.
- Normal Levels: Normal levels suggest that the ALP elevation is not significant or that the condition causing the elevation has been resolved.
- Lower-than-Normal Levels: This can indicate conditions such as hypophosphatasia, hypothyroidism, malnutrition, pernicious anaemia, protein deficiency, Wilson disease, or zinc deficiency.
Home Collection for Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum Test Near You
Metropolis Healthcare offers a convenient home sample collection service for the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test. A trained phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample, ensuring comfort and safety while maintaining high standards of sample handling and testing accuracy.
This service allows you to receive timely and reliable results without compromising on the quality of the diagnostic solution. Metropolis Healthcare is committed to making healthcare accessible by providing quality diagnostic services conveniently at your doorstep.
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis, Serum Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis, Serum with a clear pricing structure.
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis, Serum Price in Mumbai is ₹ 5,300 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
This test measures the different isoenzymes of alkaline phosphatase present in a patient's blood serum.
- The test is performed to identify the source of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels in the blood.
- It helps differentiate between liver-related and bone-related causes of elevated alkaline phosphatase, as different isoenzymes predominate in these tissues.
This test may be recommended in the following situations:
- When a patient has elevated alkaline phosphatase levels, and there is a need to determine the underlying cause.
- When there is clinical suspicion of liver or bone diseases that may affect alkaline phosphatase levels.
- Patients with symptoms or risk factors related to liver or bone conditions may undergo this test.
A positive result in this test indicates an abnormal pattern of alkaline phosphatase isoenzymes, which may help identify the specific tissue or organ responsible for elevated alkaline phosphatase levels.
The test involves a blood draw, where a healthcare professional collects a sample of blood from a vein, usually in the arm. The procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive.
In most cases, no specific preparations are necessary. However, patients should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider.
Which other tests are ordered with the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis - Serum test?
- Liver Function Tests: These tests assess various liver enzymes, bilirubin levels, and other liver-specific markers to evaluate overall liver function.
- Bone-Specific Markers: Tests like serum calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and vitamin D levels may be ordered to assess bone health and detect conditions such as osteoporosis.
- Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test: PTH levels are measured to evaluate parathyroid gland function and calcium regulation in the body.
- Vitamin D Test: Measurement of vitamin D levels is important for assessing bone health, as vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption.
- Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Test
- Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test is a diagnostic tool that measures the different forms (isoenzymes) of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the blood, helping to identify the source of elevated ALP levels and diagnose various liver, bone, and other conditions.
Yes, home sample collection is available for the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test. A trained phlebotomist can visit your home to collect the sample, ensuring accurate and reliable results with the convenience and safety of at-home testing.
Normal ALP levels and its isoenzymes vary by age and sex. For adults, the normal range is typically around 30-120 U/L, but this can differ by lab. The isoenzyme distribution usually shows a predominance of liver and bone isoenzymes, with smaller amounts of others.
Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test is used to determine the source of elevated alkaline phosphatase levels, helping to differentiate between liver and bone diseases, as well as other conditions.
The frequency of testing depends on the underlying condition being monitored. It is typically ordered as a follow-up to an abnormal general ALP test or as part of ongoing monitoring for specific health conditions.
There is no specific time recommended for this test, but it is generally advised to have it done in the morning after an overnight fast.
Overnight fasting is recommended to minimize potential interference from recent food intake, particularly fatty meals that may raise ALP levels in some individuals. However, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for specific fasting guidelines tailored to your needs.
Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, as some drugs can affect ALP levels. Additionally, avoiding strenuous exercise before the test is recommended, as it can temporarily increase ALP levels.
The key parameters measured in the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test include liver isoenzyme, bone isoenzyme, intestinal isoenzyme, placental isoenzyme (in pregnant women), and other less common isoenzymes from the kidneys or other tissues.
The Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test is usually ordered when a patient has an elevated total alkaline phosphatase level, to help determine the source of the elevation and aid in the diagnosis of various conditions.
The blood draw for the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test typically takes only a few minutes. However, the processing and analysis of the sample may take several hours to a few days, depending on the laboratory.
The turnaround time for the Alkaline Phosphatase Isoenzymes Electrophoresis Serum test results can vary depending on the lab. Typically, results are available within a week based on the day/time when the sample is collected and processed.
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