Serum Acid Phosphatase Lab Test

Acid phosphatase is an enzyme present chiefly in the prostate gland and the semen. Some amount is present in blood throughout the body. In a healthy individual, it lies within the normal range.

Conditions Associated With Elevated Levels

The test is done to diagnose and assess the following conditions:

• Prostate cancer
• Prostate infarction
• Benign hypertrophy of the prostate gland (BPH)
• Sickle cell crisis
• Certain bone diseases (Paget’s disease)
• Multiple myeloma
• Prostatitis (infection or inflammation of the gland)
• Hyperparathyroidism

TRAP (tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase) is similar to PAP. It is used to diagnose hairy-cell leukemia and other lymph diseases. However, the test is not always accurate.

Normal Values

< or =2.1 ng/mL

Interpretations

An increase is usually linked with some pathology in the prostate gland, commonly malignancy. However, the test is not very specific for the condition. Other conditions affecting the prostate may also lead to an increase in levels.

PSA is more specific for prostatic cancers and is slowly replacing this test.

Manipulating or examining the prostate may also lead to temporary increase in the enzyme. The affect stays for a day.

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) is also done in patients of prostatic cancers to assess the treatment of malignancy, looking for recurrences etc.

Precautions

Avoid all physical examinations of the prostate gland from 24 hours prior to the test.

Some drugs like clofibrate, oxalates, fluorides and alcohol may interfere with the serum levels of this enzyme. So inform your doctor prior to the test about all medicines you are taking.

Acid Phosphatase Lab Report Checker