Type of test Blood; urine (24-hour)
Normal findings
Blood
Male: 80-200 units/mL or 19.2-48 units/L (SI units) Female: 75-185 units/mL or 18-44.4 units/L (SI units)
Urine
2-18 units/24 hr
Test explanation and related physiology
LAP is an intracellular enzyme that exists in the hepatobiliary system and, to a much smaller degree, in the pancreas and small intestine. LAP is mainly used in diagnosing liver disorders and in the differential diagnosis of increased levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP). LAP levels tend to parallel ALP levels in hepatic disease. LAP is a sensitive indicator of cholestasis; however, unlike ALP, LAP remains normal in bone disease.
Interfering factors
• Pregnancy may cause increased values.
* Estrogens and progesterones may cause increased LAP levels.
Procedure and patient care
• See inside front cover for Routine Blood Testing.
• Fasting: no •
Blood tube commonly used: red
• If a urine sample is needed, see inside front cover for Routine Urine Testing.
Abnormal findings
Increased levels
- Hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Hepatic necrosis, ischemia, tumor
- Hepatotoxic drugs
- Cholestasis
- Gallstones
