Description
Introduction: Prostatic acid phosphatase, also known as PAP, is an enzyme produced by the prostate. PAP may be found in increased amounts in men with prostate cancer.
PAP's physiological function may be associated with the liquefaction process of semen.
The highest levels of PAP are found in metastasized prostate cancer. Diseases of the bone, such as Paget's disease or hyperparathyroidism, diseases of blood cells (sickle-cell disease) or multiple myeloma or lysosomal storage diseases (Gaucher's disease), will show moderately higher levels.
Certain medications can cause temporary changes in PAP levels. Manipulation of the prostate gland through rectal exam, biopsy or massage may increase the level.
Description: Human Prostate Acid Phosphatase produced in Pooled human seminal fluid having a molecular mass of approximately 100kD