Alkaline phosphatase

[JoWell]

Hi everyone,

I have a question regarding alkaline phosphatase (AP).  My mom’s level is 145, normal is <=125.  Her CEA has been normal and stable.  But AP has been rising steadily since October 2021, from 102 to 122 to 145.  What could be the cause of the rising AP?  Is it an indication of anything, a precursor of something?  

A little background on my mom: She was Dx stage 4 lung cancer adenocarcinoma since Aug 2020, has been on Tag 80 now Tag 40 for 18 mo.  PETs have been stable.

Thanks so much, looking forward to hearing back.

J

 

 

[LouT]

Hi JoWell,

I had heard about alkaline-phosphatase in the past, but hadn't really gotten educated on this topic.  While ALP can be found in various areas of the body it is most focused on the liver and can be an indicator for various conditions when found in conjunction with other symptoms.  I went to Cleveland Clinic's site to read up on it and the numbers you're citing seem to be indicative of what clinicians consider normal ranges.  You can learn a bit more about it from Cleveland Clinic and that article can be found here.  The best thing to do though is to speak with your Mom's medical team to see what ALP's numbers mean in relation to your Mom's treatment.  It may be something as simple as the liver enzyme being affected by her ongoing therapy.  Please speak with her doctor.  

Lou

[D iane]

It could be.  It comes from your liver or bones.  Ask for the isoenzyme blood test and that should point you to where it's coming from-liver or bones.  Good luck

[JoWell]

Thanks so much Lou and D iane.  Her doctor asked her to repeat ALP in two weeks.  I’ll let you know if I learn anything new which could help others.  Best wishes! - J