I have been on AI’s and lupron for a year and have noticed an increase in my ALP blood work since starting. My dexa scan did show that I was below average for bone mass last year and did classify me with osteopenia. Could those rising ALP numbers be bone loss due to the effects of my AI treatment?
Hi Kay,
Thanks for posting your question.
Aromatase inhibitors and leuprorelin (Lupron) can sometimes affect how well your liver functions as well as your bone health. That is why alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) is usually requested as part of your routine blood tests. This gives your treatment team more information about any affect these treatments may be having on your liver and your bones.
It is not uncommon for patient’s on treatment to sometimes see a rise in their ALP levels but still be within the normal range. As you’ve noticed an increase in your ALP bloods since starting on treatment you can discuss this with your breast care nurse/treatment team. They will be able to give you more information about what they think may be causing this rise for you and whether this relates to any bone density loss.
You mention that your DEXA scan showed you have osteopenia. You may find our information about bone health here useful if you haven’t already seen it.
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Heidi
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