Measuring alkaline phosphatase in leukocytes helps differentiate chronic myelogenous leukemia from three other myeloproliferative diseases – polycythemia vera, myelofibrosis, and thrombocytopenia. It is also useful in distinguishing polycythemia vera from secondary polycythemia.
Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase (LAP) is an enzyme found in the neutrophil granulocytes of all stages of maturation, from metamyelocytes to mature stages, and represents intracellular metabolism.
To perform the test, a stain is added to the blood smear, allowing the staining and classification of neutrophils based on the appearance of the granules in their cytoplasm. Neutrophils are scored based on the intensity of the reaction color.
What Do Pathological Values Mean?
- Increase: Age < 14 days, myeloid metaplasia, aplastic anemia, burns, Down syndrome, Hodgkin's disease, postoperative, leukemia (acute lymphocytic or hairy cell), myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia, pregnancy and during lactation, polycythemia vera, stress, infection, thrombocytopenia, tissue necrosis, trauma. Medications: ACTH, ethylene glycol, oral contraceptives.
- Decrease: Anemia (aplastic, pernicious), leukemia (acute monocytic, chronic granulocytic, chronic myelogenous), cirrhosis, collagen diseases, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, erythroleukemia, gout, hereditary hypophosphatemia, hypophosphatemia, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, infectious mononucleosis, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.
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.
