What does an elevated PAP prostatic acid phosphatase imply?

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) originates in the prostate and is normally present in small amounts in the blood. In addition to prostate cancer, elevated levels of PAP may indicate testicular cancer, leukemia, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, as well as some noncancerous conditions.

What is a prostatic acid phosphatase test?

A test of blood serum to detect a specific enzyme produced by several tissues, particularly the prostate. Acid phosphatase levels are elevated in 85% of cases with skeletal metastases, 60% of untreated cases, and 20% of localized cases. Usually ordered as a separate laboratory test.

What is the function of prostatic acid phosphatase?

Although prostatic acid phosphatase is a fairly nonspecific enzyme in vitro, there is substantial circumstantial evidence that this protein plays a role in regulating levels of protein phosphorylation, particularly on tyrosine.

What is the reference value for prostatic acid phosphatase?

If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this. < or =2.1 ng/mL Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) levels above the reference range may indicate prostate cancer, but can be due to many other factors, see Cautions.

Is the acid phosphatase test a good test?

AP enzymes are unstable especially at a temperature above 37 °C and at a pH level of above 7.0. As the prostatic component (PAP) is not raised in the early prostatic diseases so this is not a good screening enzyme. Total acid phosphatase consists of a one-half prostatic component and the rest of the liver, disintegrating platelets, and RBCs.

Where is the acid phosphatase found in the liver?

Total acid phosphatase consists of a one-half prostatic component and the rest of the liver, disintegrating platelets, and RBCs. Acid phosphatase is a lysosomal enzyme, so the prostatic enzyme is found in the lysosome of prostatic epithelium and is a glycoprotein. Total AP is raised in Bone diseases.

Where is prostatic acid phosphatase ( PAP ) secreted in urine?

Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP) is a component of total acid phosphates and is a major constituent in seminal fluid and is also secreted in the urine. PAP is normally found in serum in very low levels. PAP measurement has found clinical application in the management of prostatic cancer patients.