dogs

my 14 year old westie has alk phos of 6000 is this serious

[ginger899]

Alkaline Phosphatase at 6000 does sound high.
Have you discussed this with your vet? I presume you found out about the high ALP level from a blood testing, either routine, or diagnostic? In which case, the vet ought to fully explain the findings, and their implications and whether any treatment is required for any underlying condition.
I would speak to your vet as soon as possible to get clarity about this.

[Misfits4Me]

Hi Bernie & welcome.....I don't think 6000 is possible! Are you sure that's what your Vet said?  The normal range is in the 20's - 200's....Diseases will appear with a problem in the 1800-2000 range.....Is your Vet treating for any disease?

My first two thought from your description of dog is:  Cushings Disease or clearly, Liver Disease......Does your Westie by chance take Steriods?

Hopefully, your Vet is on top of this problem.....I personally would think 6000 would be past the fatal limit......Again, are you sure?

Please let us know what happens......I'll be watching this post......I hope others will come by for suggestions........Good luck, Karla

[bernie63]

thank you yes definately 6000 and yes she is being investigated. no she isn't on any medication up until now my lovely old girl has never had any health problems just cataracts which developed about 18months ago

[Misfits4Me]

WOW, I clearly jumped the gun so to speak......I apologize for that!

What is your Vet pursuing? Did he/she say?

Does your girl have any outwardly symptoms? Anything odd that you see?

I'm very curious now, as to what your Vet finds.....Did they offer you any medication to support her Liver?
Please keep us updated on her....I'm still hoping others will offer suggestions......I'll be thinking about you both, Karla

[Misfits4Me]

I found this: & thought I'd pass it along.....

When the Alkaline Phosphatase is profoundly elevated (10 x the normal high):
This is a liver enzyme that is released when there is any type of inflammation in the liver tissues. The two most likely conditions to cause such a profound elevation are an obstruction of the bile flow from the liver (as with a gall bladder stone, pancreatitis, or tumor) or from a high level of systemic steroids (glucocorticoids), either from overdosing this medication or from a hormonal disorder called Cushing’s Disease. This finding is significant and should be pursued right away.

Karla