Alkaline Phosphatase DEA

What does this test measure?

Alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme present in almost all tissues, especially liver, bone, placenta, intestine and kidney; in normal adults it originates mainly from liver and bone.

Why is it ordered?

Elevated in bone disease with increased osteoblastic activity (Paget's disease, hyperparathyroidism, bone tumours, rickets, osteomalacia) and in hepatobiliary disease (obstructive jaundice, hepatitis, liver cancer); bone growth and pregnancy also raise it.

Normal range

37 ºC — Men: up to 270 U/L · Women: up to 240 U/L

Per the original BioSystems insert

Sample type

Serum or plasma