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ALP

Also known as: ALK PHOS
Formal name: Alkaline phosphatase
Related tests: AST, ALT, Bilirubin, Liver panel, Bone markers

Common Questions

1.  What other tests are used to evaluate liver disorders?

Other commonly used liver tests include more enzymes found in liver cells, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin (a yellow pigment removed from the body by the liver).

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2.  Who is at risk for a liver disorder?

While many things could harm the liver, the major causes of liver disease are infection by viruses and the drinking of too much alcohol.  In rare cases, some medicines can damage the liver; your doctor may suggest liver tests from time to time if you are taking one of these drugs.  Some diseases that are inherited from your parents can also occasionally damage the liver.

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3.  What signs should make me aware of a liver disorder?

In many cases, liver disease has few symptoms.  When the liver is damaged rapidly (a disease called acute hepatitis), the skin and the whites of the eyes often turn yellow, the urine turns brown, and bowel movements lose their color.  In its late stages, liver disease may cause confusion, easy bruising, swelling in your abdomen, and the vomiting of blood.

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