Definition of Leucine aminopeptidase - blood:

Leucine aminopeptidase is a protein, called an enzyme, that is normally found in liver cells and cells of the small intestine.

Serum leucine aminopeptidase is a test that measures how much of this protein is in your blood.

Your urine can also be checked for this protein. See: Leucine aminopeptidase - urine

How the test is performed:

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

How to prepare for the test:

Your health care provider may tell you to stop taking any drugs that could affect the test. Drugs that can affect the results of this test include estrogen and progesterone. Never stop taking any medicine without first talking to your doctor.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

Your doctor may order this test to see if your liver is damaged. An excess of leucine aminopeptidase is released into your blood when your liver cells are damaged, or if you have a liver tumor.

This test is done only rarely, because other tests, such as gamma glutamyl transpeptidase are as accurate and are more easily available.

See also:

• ALT
• AST
• ALP
• LDH
• GGT