What does TRAP stand for in relation to Hairy Cell Leukemia?

In the context of Hairy Cell Leukemia, TRAP stands for Tartrate Resistant Acid Phosphatase. This enzyme is notable because it displays resistance to inhibition by tartrate, a characteristic that is particularly useful in the diagnosis of specific hematological malignancies, including Hairy Cell Leukemia.

In Hairy Cell Leukemia, leukemic cells show high levels of this enzyme, allowing for its use as a diagnostic marker in laboratory settings. The test for TRAP positivity is routinely employed to distinguish Hairy Cell Leukemia from other leukemias and lymphomas, enhancing the accuracy of the diagnosis. The presence of these traits in the cancerous cells underpins the significance of measuring TRAP levels in clinical practice.