I had a routine blood test because of a few health issues that were happening around the same time
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that is found in the liver in good amounts. Its levels show a state of health and disease and is considered an important liver function marker. In conditions of the liver, damaged liver cells release increased amounts of the enzyme into the blood. This test is often used to detect blocked bile ducts because alkaline phosphatase is in cells of bile ducts. In jaundice patients the alkaline phosphatase levels are raised. In some cancers the sudden rise of alkaline phosphatase by more than 120 units over 4 to 6 weeks is a concern and might require more detailed evaluation. If your earlier alkaline phosphatase was less than 60, and now it is 180 then it is a concern. If past reports show the enzyme almost same as the present level then there is no serious concern. Please do not worry.