Why am I having this test?

The serum acid phosphatase test is sometimes used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer and in helping to determine if the cancer has spread beyond the prostate. Acid phosphatase may also be high in other prostate diseases, or after procedures that manipulate the prostate. This test has been largely replaced by other more specific tests, such as the serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.

Acid phosphatase is also raised (elevated) in certain metabolic disorders, such as Gaucher disease.

What is being tested?

This test checks the level of acid phosphatase in the blood. Acid phosphatase is an enzyme that is found in many tissues, such as the liver and bone marrow, but is highest in the prostate. The level of this enzyme is usually, but not always, elevated when a person has prostate cancer.

What kind of sample is taken?

A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.

Tell your health care provider about:

• Any medical conditions you have, especially conditions that affect the prostate or urinary tract.

• Any surgeries or procedures you have had, especially procedures that involved treatment of the prostate or urinary tract.

• Any medicines you take. Certain medicines can affect the level of acid phosphatase in the body. For example:

  • Some medicines, such as clofibrate, can increase the level of acid phosphatase.

  • Other medicines, such as heparin, can decrease the level of acid phosphatase.

• Whether you consume alcohol. Alcohol can decrease the level of acid phosphatase.

How are the results reported?

What do the results mean?

A result that is higher than the reference range may mean that you have inflammation or disease of the prostate. It can also mean that you have certain metabolic, genetic, kidney, or liver diseases.

Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean. In some cases, your health care provider may do more testing to confirm the results.

Questions to ask your health care provider

Summary

• The serum acid phosphatase test checks the level of acid phosphatase in the blood. Acid phosphatase is an enzyme that is found in many tissues but is highest in the prostate.

• This test was previously used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, but it has been largely replaced by other more specific tests.

• The test involves collecting a blood sample. Your test results will be reported as a value.

• Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.

This information is not intended to replace advice given to you by your health care provider. Make sure you discuss any questions you have with your health care provider.