Acid Phosphatase (ACP) test is a blood test that measures the level of acid phosphatase, an enzyme present in various tissues such as prostate, bone, and blood cells. The test is mainly used to help diagnose prostate cancer and to monitor the treatment of the disease.

Pre-test preparation: No special preparation is needed for the ACP test.

Testing method: A blood sample is taken from a patient and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The sample is then analyzed to determine the level of acid phosphatase in the blood.

Common symptoms for prescribing this test: The ACP test is usually ordered when a patient has symptoms of prostate cancer such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and pain during ejaculation. The test is also ordered as a follow up test to monitor treatment of prostate cancer.

Diagnosis: Elevated ACP levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer but it is not a specific test for prostate cancer. Other tests such as PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) and Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) are used in combination to diagnose prostate cancer.

Reference range: The reference range for ACP levels can vary depending on the lab, but generally, it is considered normal for adult males to have ACP levels of 2-5 ng/ml.

Normal values: The normal range for ACP levels can vary depending on the lab, but typically falls between 2-5 ng/ml in adult males.

It is important to note that an elevated ACP level does not confirm a diagnosis of prostate cancer and should be interpreted along with clinical presentation and other laboratory test results. Additionally, other factors such as age, sex, and certain medications can affect ACP levels, so the results should be considered in the context of the patient’s overall clinical picture. Additionally, in case of prostate cancer, it is important to note that not all prostate cancer will cause an elevation in acid phosphatase levels, therefore, the test should not be used as the sole screening test for the disease.