Alkaline phosphatase, ALP, is an enzyme produced by your body. Your doctor may test the levels of ALP in your blood to screen for certain diseases. Your doctor may choose not to perform an ALP test if you drink alcohol frequently. Frequent consumption of alcohol can bias the results of the ALP test.
About Alkaline Phosphatase
The alkaline phosphatase measured in your blood is a mixture of different forms. The majority of ALP in the blood comes your bones and liver, although most cells in your body produce small amounts. ALP is a phosphatase, an enzyme that removes phosphate groups linked to other molecules. ALP removes phosphate groups from other enzymes, molecules that store energy and recycles DNA. ALP works best in an alkaline environment, opposite of an acidic environment.
Liver and Alkaline Phosphatase
Your doctor may measure ALP to screen for liver disease. In many cases, damaged liver cells produce a much higher level of ALP in an attempt to survive. Diseases other than liver disease can elevate ALP. Additionally, some forms of liver disease, such as hepatitis, do not greatly elevate ALP levels. Your doctor will perform further tests to determine whether elevated ALP originated from the liver in addition to other tests of liver function.
Alcohol and Liver Disease
Heavy drinkers have a much higher risk of developing liver disease, according to the National Institutes of Health. High alcohol consumption can lead to swelling and inflammation of the liver, called hepatitis. Alcohol can also cause scarring of the liver, called cirrhosis.
Alcohol and the Alkaline Phosphatase Test
The consumption of alcohol raises the levels of ALP produced by the liver, even if your liver is healthy. Your doctor will instruct you to refrain from eating or drinking for 10 or more hours before the test. Some drinks and foods, especially those high in fat, elevate ALP levels as they are digested. Digestion of alcohol in moderate to large quantities can elevate ALP even if it is consumed more than 10 hours prior to the test.
Other Factors Elevating Alkaline Phosphatase
Many other factors can elevate ALP. Bone disease and healing fractures elevate ALP levels. Pregnancy raises the production of ALP by your body. A blockage of your bile ducts can also lead to an elevation in ALP levels. Certain medications may also elevate the levels of ALP. Your doctor may instruct you to temporarily stop taking some medication in preparation for an ALP test.
