Intestinal Isoenzymes details
What Intestinal Isoenzymes shows
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme made in several tissues, mainly the liver and bone, with smaller amounts from the intestine and, in pregnancy, the placenta. An ALP isoenzyme test separates total ALP into these forms, and this result is the intestinal fraction. It is measured when total ALP is raised and the source is unclear. A higher intestinal fraction is often harmless, since it can rise after eating, especially a fatty meal, and tends to be higher in some people depending on blood type. It can also be raised in some intestinal and liver conditions. It is interpreted alongside total ALP, the other isoenzymes, and liver tests.
Tests that include Intestinal Isoenzymes
When the Total Alkaline Phosphatase activity is increased, the Isoenzymes are useful in determining the source of the increased activity.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) An enzyme found mainly in the liver and bones. High levels can signal liver disease, bile duct blockage, or bone conditions.
- Bone Isoenzymes Measures the bone form of alkaline phosphatase, helping show whether a raised alkaline phosphatase level comes from bone rather than the liver.
- Intestinal Isoenzymes The intestinal fraction of alkaline phosphatase, measured in serum to help work out whether a raised alkaline phosphatase comes from the intestine rather than liver or bone.
- Liver Isoenzymes The liver fraction of alkaline phosphatase, measured in serum to help work out whether a raised alkaline phosphatase comes from the liver or bile ducts.
- Macrohepatic Isoenzymes A high-molecular-weight form of liver alkaline phosphatase, measured in serum and usually linked to slowed or blocked bile flow.
- Placental Isoenzymes Measures the placental form of alkaline phosphatase, which normally rises in pregnancy and is reported as part of an alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme test.
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