Prostataphosphatase (PAP) is isoenzyme 2 of acid phosphatase (SP), which accompanies many different metabolic processes in the body. Acid phosphatase is subject to circadian rhythms and shows the highest levels in the morning.
The following isoenzymes can be distinguished:
- Erythrocyte SP (SP-1).
- Bone SP (SP-5)
- Leukocyte SP (SP-4)
- Prostate SP (SP-2)
- Platelet SP (SP-3)
The prostate phosphatase (PAP) it is a so-called tumor marker. Tumor markers are endogenous substances produced by tumors and detectable in the blood. They can provide an indication of a malignant (malignant) neoplasm and are used as a follow-up test in cancer aftercare.
The procedure
Material needed
- Blood serum
Preparation of the patient
- None necessary
Disruptive factors
- Avoid hemolysis! This leads to the highly pathological increase in acid phosphatase.
Normal value
| Normal value | <2.2 ng/ml |
| Gray zone (control required) | 2.2-3.4 ng/ml |
| Suspicion of prostate carcinoma | > 3,4 % |
Indications
- Therapy/progression monitoring in prostate cancer.
Interpretation
Interpretation of increased values
- Prostate carcinoma (prostate cancer)
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH; benign enlargement of the prostate) (slightly elevated levels).
- Bone metastases of a prostate carcinoma
Interpretation of decreased values
- No diagnostic significance
Further notes
- If prostate cancer is suspected, PSA should be determined as a priority. PSA is more specific and sensitive than PAP.
