Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) Test
Short Name: LAP Score Test
Also known as: Leukocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score, LAP Test
Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹971. Uses Cytochemistry on Blood smears from finger prick samples. Results in Reports are available within 1 week of sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) test is to assess the activity of alkaline phosphatase in white blood cells to aid in the diagnosis of hematological disorders. It helps differentiate between chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), where LAP scores are typically low, and leukemoid reactions, where scores are often elevated. This test is also useful in evaluating unexplained leukocytosis and monitoring myeloproliferative disorders, providing valuable information for clinical decision-making.
- Test Code
- 29
- Price
- ₹971
- Sample Type
- Blood smears from finger prick
- Result Time
- Reports are available within 1 week of sample collection.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Cytochemistry
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any medications or recent illnesses.
Method: Finger prick blood smear collection and fixation
Laboratory Analysis
A small blood sample is collected via finger prick and fixed onto slides for laboratory analysis.
Report Delivery
The sample is sent to the laboratory. Normal activities can be resumed immediately.
Timeline: Reports are available within 1 week of sample collection.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) test is to assess the activity of alkaline phosphatase in white blood cells to aid in the diagnosis of hematological disorders. It helps differentiate between chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), where LAP scores are typically low, and leukemoid reactions, where scores are often elevated. This test is also useful in evaluating unexplained leukocytosis and monitoring myeloproliferative disorders, providing valuable information for clinical decision-making.
How to Prepare
- Collect 5 fresh blood smears from finger prick.
- Fix the smears in 95% ethanol for 30 minutes.
- Air dry the fixed smears.
- Ship at room temperature immediately.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The LAP score is a valuable tool in hematology for distinguishing between chronic myeloid leukemia and reactive conditions like leukemoid reaction. Early and accurate testing can significantly impact treatment decisions."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Improperly fixed or air-dried smears
- Hemolyzed or contaminated samples
- Samples not shipped within stability period
Understanding Your Results
Low LAP Score (below 20)
May indicate chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) or other myeloproliferative disorders.
Normal LAP Score (20-100)
Considered within normal limits, though interpretation depends on clinical context.
High LAP Score (above 100)
May suggest leukemoid reaction, infections, or other reactive conditions.
If you experience symptoms such as persistent fever, unexplained fatigue, bone pain, abdominal pain, jaundice, weight loss, or anemia, or if your LAP score results are abnormal, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Limitations
- ⚠The test is not definitive alone and should be correlated with other clinical and laboratory findings.
- ⚠Variability in reference ranges between laboratories.
- ⚠Limited use in some hematological conditions where other tests are more specific.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the finger prick site
- ●Very rare risk of infection or bleeding
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent infections or inflammatory conditions
- ●Medications that affect alkaline phosphatase levels
- ●Improper sample collection or fixation
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) Test | Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Peripheral Blood Smear | Bone Marrow Biopsy | Flow Cytometry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) Test | CBC provides a broad overview of blood cells, including count and morphology, while LAP score focuses specifically on alkaline phosphatase activity in leukocytes. | Peripheral smear examines blood cell shape and structure under a microscope, whereas LAP score uses cytochemical staining to quantify enzyme activity. | Bone marrow biopsy is an invasive procedure for detailed cellular analysis, while LAP score is a simpler, less invasive cytochemical test. | Flow cytometry analyzes multiple cell characteristics using antibodies, while LAP score assesses a single enzyme activity through staining. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leucocyte Alkaline Phosphatase Score (LAP Score) test?
Why is the LAP Score test recommended?
How is the LAP Score test performed?
What are the normal ranges for the LAP Score?
What does a low LAP Score indicate?
What does a high LAP Score indicate?
Is fasting required for the LAP Score test?
How long does it take to get LAP Score test results?
What is the cost of the LAP Score test at DNA Labs India?
Is the LAP Score test covered by insurance?
Can I get home sample collection for the LAP Score test?
What should I do if my LAP Score results are abnormal?
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