Specimen: Blood
Results: 7-10 business days
Description:
The PAP test is a blood test that measures prostatic acid phosphatase (an enzyme found in men, primarily in the prostate gland and semen) to determine the health of the prostate gland. Prostate dysfunction results in the release of PAP into the blood. This test is most often performed to determine whether you have prostate cancer, an abnormality of the prostate gland, or to follow the response of prostate cancer to treatment.
Methodology:
Immunoassay
Limitations:
Prostatic message, urinary catheter, rectal examination, and other physical contact with the prostate may cause elevated results.
Reference Range(s):
Male <2.8 ng/mL
Female Not established
This test was performed using the Siemens Chemiluminescent method. Values obtained from different assay methods cannot be used interchangeably. PAP levels, regardless of value, should not be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of disease.
Clinical Significance:
High concentrations of acid phosphatase are found in the prostate gland. Significant amounts are also found in platelets, bone, spleen, kidney and liver. 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. Serum PAP measurements have been useful in monitoring remission or relapse of a prostatic malignancy and in assessing the effectiveness of various treatment regimes. Thus, normalization in serum PAP levels has been observed following successful therapeutic intervention, while recurrent or residual disease has been associated with elevated levels of PAP.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.