What is the Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase test?
The LAP test is a measure of how much level of a protein called Alkaline phosphatase which is found in the WBCs (white blood cells) of the body is present.
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What is Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase?
Alkaline phosphatase is a group of enzymes present throughout the body especially in the liver, kidneys, placenta, bile duct and bone tissues and these enzymes remove phosphate groups from various molecules in the body. So, Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase is the one present in leukocytes and its control is related to pituitary-adrenal function. Its value alone is not diagnostic of a particular disease but related to other available clinical data.
What is the normal value of LAP?
The normal range for LAP is 44 – 147 IU/L.
What do high levels of LAP mean?
Higher than normal results mean that the following health conditions might be present:
- Polycythemia vera
- Essential thrombocytosis
- Myelofibrosis
- Leukemoid reaction
What does lower Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase mean?
Lower than-normal results mean that the following health conditions might be present:
- Pernicious anemia
- Aplastic anemia
- Chronic myeloid leukemia
What are the preparations to be done before the test?
Nothing is to be eaten or drunk 6 hours before the test. Some of the medicines like birth control pills, tranquillizers, some antibiotics, etc. This might affect the results so you may be asked to stop some of them before the test.
Is there any risk related to the test?
Only minor risks are related to the test which is slight bruising at the area where blood is drawn which will disappear after some time. But it is necessary to tell your doctor about any bleeding disorder you have which might increase any complications.
