Measurement of the bone fraction of alkaline phosphatase is used in the diagnosis and assessment of the severity of metabolic bone diseases, including Paget's disease, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for these diseases.
Bone alkaline phosphatase (Ostase, BAP) is an isoenzyme of alkaline phosphatase found in the bones and more specifically on the surface of osteoblasts. Measurement of bone alkaline phosphatase reflects the biosynthetic activity of these bone-forming cells and has been shown to be a sensitive and reliable indicator of bone metabolism. Normal bones are constantly undergoing remodeling, where bone degradation or absorption is balanced by the formation of new bone. This procedure is essential for maintaining bone health. If this procedure is disrupted and the rate of absorption exceeds the rate of formation, the resulting bone loss can lead to osteoporosis and a higher susceptibility to fractures.
Osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and abnormal bone micro-architecture. It can result from a variety of clinical conditions including high bone catabolism, endocrine disorders (primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism, thyrotoxicosis), osteomalacia, renal failure, gastrointestinal diseases, long-term treatment with corticosteroids, multiple myeloma, and metastatic bone cancer.
Paget's disease is another common metabolic bone disease caused by the very high rate of bone remodeling that results in bone damage. This bone damage can lead to fractures or neurological symptoms.
What Do Pathological Values Mean?
- Increase: Osteoporosis, Paget's disease of bones, advanced bone tumors (primary or metastatic), acromegaly, hyperparathyroidism, hyperthyroidism.
- Decrease: Hypoparathyroidism, hypothyroidism, cortisone therapy, effective osteoporosis treatment
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
