Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP), also prostatic specific acid phosphatase (PSAP), is an enzyme produced by the prostate. It may be found in increased amounts in men who have prostate cancer or other diseases. The highest levels of acid phosphatase are found in metastasized prostate cancer.
Acid phosphatase is very concentrated in semen. Rape investigations will often include testing for the presence of acid phosphatase in vaginal fluid.
The reference value for acid phosphatase is 2 ng/mL or less.
