Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme related to the process of breaking down proteins and is present in many tissues of the body, including the liver, bones, kidneys, and the bile duct system. Its primary function involves the hydrolysis of phosphate esters at an alkaline pH, playing a crucial role in metabolism, especially in the process of degrading dietary phosphorus. Elevated levels of ALP can indicate various health issues, notably those affecting the liver or bone. In liver diseases, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, damaged liver cells release higher amounts of ALP into the bloodstream. Similarly, conditions that affect bone growth or turnover, such as osteoporosis or Paget's disease, can lead to increased ALP levels. Additionally, ALP levels may rise in cases of bile duct obstruction, gallstones, or certain cancers. Lower than normal levels of ALP can also occur, but they are less common and typically less concerning, often related to malnutrition, certain deficiencies, or genetic conditions. Diagnosing the cause of abnormal ALP levels involves correlating with other laboratory tests, clinical assessments, and detailed patient history to determine the underlying condition accurately.