Acid phosphatase

At IntroLab laboratory, the acid phosphatase analysis is a crucial blood laboratory test for individuals showing symptoms and signs associated with the prostate, as well as for those suspected of having bone diseases.

Acid phosphatase – Definition

Acid phosphatase is an enzyme present in almost all organs, bodily fluids, erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets, with the most pronounced activity in the prostate. There are several isoenzymes of acid phosphatase originating from different tissues. This includes the prostate, platelets, erythrocytes, bones, and others. Phosphatase analysis is used to diagnose and monitor the treatment of prostate cancer. In this context, can cancer be detected by a blood analysis exclusively? The answer is no, given that other prostate diseases (such as benign prostatic hypertrophy, prostatitis, etc.) can also lead to increased activity of this enzyme.

Indications

The acid phosphatase analysis is recommended for individuals who exhibit symptoms of prostate disease. Some of the more common symptoms include pain in the lower abdomen, a feeling of fatigue, or frequent urination. Additionally, this analysis is also recommended for individuals suspected of having bone pain, including Paget’s disease and Gaucher’s disease.

Acid phosphatase analysis – Interpretation of results

Elevated levels of acid phosphatase can be detected in certain bone diseases, often in combination with elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase. These changes physiologically occur in growing children and young adults but also in certain pathological conditions such as hyperparathyroidism and myeloma. Malignant bone processes can also lead to an increase in the activity of both enzymes.

Acid phosphatase is also elevated in lysosomal diseases such as lipidosis and Gaucher’s disease. Given its presence in platelets, thromboembolic conditions (such as thrombosis, arterial embolism, and deep vein thrombosis) can also be reflected through an increase in acid phosphatase activity. An elevation of this enzyme can also be registered after a myocardial infarction and 1-2 days following procedures related to the prostate, such as surgery, catheterization, and radiotherapy.