Leukemoid reaction can be observed in association with polycythemia vera and has what LAP score?

Leukemoid reaction can be observed in association with polycythemia vera and has what LAP score?

• A. Increased
• B. Decreased
• C. Normal
• D. Not measured

Answer: (A)

Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase (LAP) is elevated in leukemoid reactions because the neutrophils are activated and responding to a reactive stimulus, boosting enzyme activity. In polycythemia vera, you can see leukocytosis, and if a leukemoid reaction occurs, the neutrophils exhibit increased LAP. This distinguishes it from conditions like chronic myeloid leukemia, where LAP is typically low. So, when a leukemoid reaction is observed in association with polycythemia vera, the LAP score would be increased.

Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase (LAP) is elevated in leukemoid reactions because the neutrophils are activated and responding to a reactive stimulus, boosting enzyme activity. In polycythemia vera, you can see leukocytosis, and if a leukemoid reaction occurs, the neutrophils exhibit increased LAP. This distinguishes it from conditions like chronic myeloid leukemia, where LAP is typically low. So, when a leukemoid reaction is observed in association with polycythemia vera, the LAP score would be increased.