Acid Phosphatase Total Test in Kathmandu

About this test

Acid phosphatase is an enzyme that works best in acidic conditions and is released by several tissues — chiefly the prostate gland, but also bone, the liver, spleen, red blood cells, and platelets. This test measures the total amount circulating in the blood. Historically it was the main marker doctors used to detect and monitor cancer of the prostate that had spread beyond the gland, particularly to bone, and it can still be useful where modern tumour markers are unavailable or as a supporting result. A raised total acid phosphatase, especially the prostatic fraction, may point to advanced prostatic carcinoma, while the bone-derived (tartrate-resistant) fraction rises in conditions of high bone turnover such as Paget's disease, certain bone secondaries, and Gaucher's disease. Because the enzyme also leaks from damaged blood cells, a haemolysed or poorly handled sample can give a misleadingly high figure, which is why careful collection matters. Your doctor may order it when investigating an older man with bone pain, urinary difficulty, an abnormal prostate on examination, or an unexplained rise in alkaline phosphatase, and it is usually interpreted alongside prostate-specific antigen (PSA), alkaline phosphatase, a digital rectal examination, and imaging. It is not a screening test for the general population; rather, it helps build a fuller picture once a specific concern has been raised. Results need to be read in clinical context, since recent prostate manipulation, an enlarged but benign prostate, or simple sample handling can all nudge the number upwards without indicating serious disease.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required. The sample should reach the laboratory quickly, as this enzyme is fragile and breaks down if left standing — we add a stabiliser and process it promptly. Avoid any rectal examination, prostate massage, or catheterisation for at least 48 hours before the test, as these can falsely raise the result.

Turnaround time

Reports for Acid Phosphatase Total are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other biochemistry tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Acid Phosphatase Total or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.