Name of the Procedure:

Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase (LAP) with Count

Summary

The Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase (LAP) with Count test measures the level of alkaline phosphatase enzyme activity in white blood cells (leukocytes). This procedure involves drawing a blood sample, which is then analyzed in a laboratory to count and evaluate LAP activity.

Purpose

The LAP with Count test is used to help diagnose and monitor certain blood disorders and conditions. It can aid in distinguishing between different types of leukemia and other hematological diseases. The goal is to identify abnormalities in white blood cell function, which can provide critical information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Unexplained fever or infections
• Abnormal results from a complete blood count (CBC)
• Symptoms such as fatigue, bruising, or anemia
• Diagnosed or suspected hematological disorders (e.g., chronic myeloid leukemia, polycythemia vera)

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically required for the patient.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking as some drugs can affect LAP levels.
• A standard pre-blood draw protocol, such as fasting or hydration requirements, should be followed if instructed by the physician.

Procedure Description

1. The healthcare provider will sanitize the skin over a vein, usually in the arm, with an antiseptic.
2. A tourniquet is applied to make veins more visible and easier to access.
3. A needle is inserted into the vein to draw a blood sample, which is collected in one or more vials.
4. The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis where technicians stain the white blood cells and measure the LAP activity and count.

Duration

The blood draw takes about 5-10 minutes. Laboratory analysis typically takes 1-2 days.

Setting

The blood sample is taken in a healthcare setting such as a hospital, outpatient clinic, or a specialized laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse to draw the blood sample.
• Laboratory technicians or pathologists to analyze the sample.

Risks and Complications

• Minor pain or discomfort at the needle site.
• Slight bruising or bleeding.
• Rarely, infection at the puncture site.

Benefits

• Helps in accurately diagnosing specific types of blood disorders.
• Guides effective treatment plans.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Patients may need to apply gentle pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding.

Alternatives

• Bone marrow biopsy: More invasive but can provide additional detailed information.
• Flow cytometry: Another type of blood test that can analyze cell properties and count.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during the blood draw, comparable to a standard blood test.
• Minimal pain afterward, typically resolved quickly without complications.
• Any concerns or discomfort can be managed by the healthcare provider.