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Leucite aminopeptidase is an enzyme. It occurs in the liver, pancreas, intestinal epithelium, kidneys, and leukocytes. It is mainly excreted in the bile. The examination of this enzyme is performed, inter alia, when biliary obstruction is suspected. The material needed for the test is serum.
Leucine aminopeptidase study
First, it should be explained what leucine aminopeptidase is. In short, it is an enzyme that is normally found inside the bile ducts and liver cells. It is also observed to some extent in the pancreas and small intestine. Damage to the cells of these organs causes an increase in the activity of the enzyme (LAP) in the blood. Leucine aminopeptidase is a very sensitive indicator of cholestasis.
The test is to measure the activity of LAP in the blood. The correct norm for its concentration in blood serum is about 20-50 U / l.
When do we perform the leucine aminopeptidase test?
The LAP determination itself is relatively rare. The indications for performing a leucine aminopeptidase test are presented below.
1. Suspicion of obstruction (obstruction) of the bile ducts.
2. Damage to the function of liver cells.
3. Monitoring of liver neoplasms (detection of possible metastases).
4. Pancreatic cancer diagnosis.
Material needed for the LAP test: serum.
Preparation for the test: on an empty stomach (at least 8 hours).
The course of the leucine aminopeptidase test: one-time blood sampling from a vein in the arm.
Time to wait for the result: 1 Day.
Standard: 5-25 nmol/l/s.
Comments: The study is rarely used in clinical practice. However, its role is quite important, especially when disturbances in the drainage of bile from the liver are accompanied by an increase in the concentration of another frequently determined enzyme (alkaline phosphatase).
Can complications arise after performing a leucine aminopeptidase test?
There are actually no complications with the examination. In some cases, however, prolonged bleeding or hematoma may occur due to an incorrect vein puncture. This is especially true for people who are prone to hemorrhagic diathesis.